Distinguished: meaning, definitions and examples

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distinguished

 

[dɪˈstɪŋɡwɪʃt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

in a social or professional setting

Recognized for excellence or superior quality; having a special status or position; noticeable or prominent

Synonyms

eminent, notable, prominent, renowned.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
distinguished

Appropriate when referring to someone or something that commands great respect because of their achievements or qualities.

  • She is a distinguished professor who has made significant contributions to her field
  • The distinguished guest was greeted with a standing ovation
eminent

Best suited for highlighting someone's respected status or prominence in a specific field, often used in academic or professional contexts.

  • The conference hosted many eminent scientists from around the world
  • He is an eminent historian known for his extensive research
renowned

Ideal for highlighting widespread recognition and respect, often used when someone or something is famous across a broad audience.

  • The chef is renowned for his innovative culinary techniques
  • Her artwork is renowned worldwide
notable

Useful for mentioning someone or something that is worthy of attention or stands out for specific reasons.

  • The notable feature of this painting is its use of vibrant colors
  • She is notable for her charitable work in the community
prominent

Applicable when emphasizing visibility, recognition, or importance in a particular area or domain.

  • He played a prominent role in the negotiations
  • The monument is a prominent landmark in the city

Examples of usage

  • He was a distinguished professor at the university.
  • She was a distinguished guest at the event.
  • The hotel had a distinguished reputation for its service.
Context #2 | Verb

in a social or professional setting

To be noteworthy or outstanding in a particular field or area

Synonyms

differentiate, excel, excel, stand out.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
distinguished

Use this word to describe someone or something that is very successful, respected, and admired, particularly for excellence in a special field.

  • She is a distinguished professor in the field of biology.
  • The event was attended by many distinguished guests from various industries.
excel

This is used when someone or something does extremely well or is very good at something.

  • She excels in mathematics and science.
  • The company excels at delivering high-quality customer service.
stand out

Typically used when someone or something is easily noticeable or better than others in some way.

  • His bright green shirt made him stand out in the crowd.
  • Her innovative ideas really make her stand out in the team.
differentiate

This word is used when you need to show or find the difference between things or people.

  • It's important to differentiate between facts and opinions.
  • How does the company differentiate itself from its competitors?

Examples of usage

  • She distinguished herself as a leader in the field of science.
  • He distinguished his company with innovative products.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'distinguere', which means 'to separate' or 'to mark off'.
  • It entered the English language in the 15th century, evolving from meanings related to marked differences.

Cultural Significance

  • Being called 'distinguished' often means one has achieved a high level of success, such as awards or honors.
  • In historical context, distinguished figures have often been involved in major social or political changes, setting them apart.

Education

  • In educational settings, the term is often used to describe individuals who have made significant contributions to their fields, like Nobel Prize winners.
  • Many universities have 'Distinguished Alumni' designations to honor graduates who have excelled in their careers.

Literature

  • In literary contexts, characters described as distinguished might embody traits like wisdom, bravery, or nobility.
  • Notable authors or poets can be referred to as distinguished for their profound impact on culture and literature.

Psychology

  • Social psychology suggests that individuals often seek to appear distinguished to gain respect and recognition in society.
  • The desire for distinction can lead to personal accolades, but also pressure to maintain that status.

Translations

Translations of the word "distinguished" in other languages:

🇵🇹 distinto

🇮🇳 प्रतिष्ठित

🇩🇪 ausgezeichnet

🇮🇩 terkenal

🇺🇦 видатний

🇵🇱 wybitny

🇯🇵 著名な

🇫🇷 distingué

🇪🇸 distinguido

🇹🇷 seçkin

🇰🇷 뛰어난

🇸🇦 متميز

🇨🇿 význačný

🇸🇰 významný

🇨🇳 杰出的

🇸🇮 odličen

🇮🇸 framúrskarandi

🇰🇿 айрықша

🇬🇪 გამორჩეული

🇦🇿 fərqlənən

🇲🇽 distinguido

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,905, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.