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Meaning & use

mark of distinction

phrase·Advancedformalapproving

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UK/ˌmɑːk əv dɪˈstɪŋkʃn/
US/ˌmɑːrk əv dɪˈstɪŋkʃn/

Meanings

  1. phrasecountableformalapproving

    a sign that someone or something is especially good or respected; something that shows high quality or honor.

    Grammar: Used with 'a' or 'the': 'It is a mark of distinction.' It can be followed by 'among' or 'for'.

    Patterns

    • a mark of distinction among someone
    • a mark of distinction for someone
    • be a mark of distinction

    Winning the prize was a mark of distinction for the small college.

    Among chefs, a Michelin star is considered a mark of distinction.

    The old library was a mark of distinction in a town that had few public buildings.

  2. phrasecountableformal

    a feature or detail that makes someone or something stand out from others.

    Grammar: Often used in the pattern 'a mark of distinction between An and B'.

    Patterns

    • a mark of distinction between something and something

    The handmade roof tiles were a mark of distinction between this house and its neighbors.

    Her careful use of language was a mark of distinction in a field full of jargon.

Word forms

pluralmarks of distinction

Common combinations

a mark of distinction among
A Nobel Prize is a mark of distinction among scientists worldwide.
a mark of distinction for
The award was a mark of distinction for the entire team.
bear a mark of distinction
The building bears a mark of distinction: a carved stone above the door.
confer a mark of distinction
The king conferred a mark of distinction on the loyal soldier.

Synonyms and how they differ

badge of honor
This is a more emotional phrase, suggesting something you are proud of, often despite difficulty.
sign of excellence
This is a plainer phrase that focuses on high quality rather than on honor or respect.
distinction
Distinction alone means excellence or a difference; 'mark of distinction' is the visible sign of it.

Opposites

mark of shame

Word family

distinction noun
excellence or a clear difference
distinctive adjective
easy to notice because of a special quality
distinguished adjective
successful, respected, and admired

Commonly confused: mark of distinction or distinction?

mark of distinction vs distinction

Distinction is the quality itself; a mark of distinction is the sign or proof of that quality.

Practice

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