Basic Details
Word: Distinction
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A difference or contrast between two things; also, an excellent achievement in studies.
Synonyms: Difference, excellence, honour
Antonyms: Similarity, mediocrity, dishonour
Idioms and Phrases
- Make a distinction: To recognise or point out a difference. Example: "The teacher wanted to make a distinction between good and bad habits."
- With distinction: Achieving something excellently. Example: "She graduated with distinction after many years of hard work."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The distinction between the two paintings was clear, as one was vibrant while the other was dull.
Example 2: He received a medal for his distinction in the science competition, which was a proud moment for his family.
Example 3: Understanding the distinction between a fact and an opinion is important for good communication.
Fun Fact
The word "distinction" comes from the Latin word "distinctio," which means "a separating or distinguishing." This reflects its meaning as identifying differences or excellence.
Famous Quote
"In the end, it is not the years in your life that count. Its the life in your years." - Abraham Lincoln. This emphasizes the importance of making a distinction between a life lived well or just existing.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "distinction" mean?
a) A kind of fruit
b) A difference or contrast between things
c) A type of animal
d) A colour
Answer: b) A difference or contrast between things
2. Which of these is a synonym of "distinction"?
a) Similarity
b) Difference
c) Dishonour
d) Mediocrity
Answer: b) Difference
3. What is the antonym of "distinction"?
a) Excellence
b) Honour
c) Similarity
d) Difference
Answer: c) Similarity
4. Which sentence uses "distinction" correctly?
a) The distinction between the two tests was confusing.
b) She made a distinction to cook dinner.
c) The dog has a distinction about barking loudly.
d) He was distinction in the race.
Answer: a) The distinction between the two tests was confusing.
5. Which idiom means to recognise a difference?
a) Make a distinction
b) With distinction
c) Pay the piper
d) Hit the hay
Answer: a) Make a distinction
