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distinction

distinction, difference

noun dees-tank-SYOHN Rare
Descriptions & Qualities Quality

Origin: Latin 'distinctio'

Also means

honour, prestige

Usage Note

Distinction covers both the intellectual act of drawing a difference (faire une distinction entre) and an air of elegance or refinement — une personne de grande distinction is a person of great poise. Awards and honours are also called distinctions. The adjective distingué ('distinguished') shares the same root and is a common formal compliment.

Examples

"Il faut faire une distinction entre les deux cas."

Natural Translation

A distinction must be made between the two cases.

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