Distinguished Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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distinguished
[dษชหstษชลษกwษชสt ]
Definitions
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?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| distinguished |
Appropriate when referring to someone or something that commands great respect because of their achievements or qualities.
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| eminent |
Best suited for highlighting someone's respected status or prominence in a specific field, often used in academic or professional contexts.
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| renowned |
Ideal for highlighting widespread recognition and respect, often used when someone or something is famous across a broad audience.
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| notable |
Useful for mentioning someone or something that is worthy of attention or stands out for specific reasons.
|
| prominent |
Applicable when emphasizing visibility, recognition, or importance in a particular area or domain.
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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.
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?
| 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.
|
| excel |
This is used when someone or something does extremely well or is very good at something.
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| stand out |
Typically used when someone or something is easily noticeable or better than others in some way.
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| differentiate |
This word is used when you need to show or find the difference between things or people.
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Examples of usage
- She distinguished herself as a leader in the field of science.
- He distinguished his company with innovative products.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
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.
Origin of 'distinguished'
Main points about word origin
- 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.
The word 'distinguished' originates from the Middle English word 'distingwen', which comes from the Old French word 'distinguer'. The prefix 'dis-' means 'apart' or 'away', while 'tinguere' means 'to mark'. Therefore, 'distinguished' originally meant 'marked as separate or different'. Over time, the meaning evolved to represent excellence or prominence.
See also: distinguish, distinguishable, distinguishing, indistinguishable, undistinguished.