distinction

dis|tinc|tion [ dı`stıŋkʃən ] noun ***

1. ) count a difference between two things:

In practice, these distinctions are often blurred (=not made very clear).

distinction between: Do other countries have the same distinction between amateur and professional athletes that we do?

make/draw a distinction: Medical literature does not always make a distinction between the two terms.

a clear/sharp distinction: This would lead to a clear distinction between management and the workforce.

2. ) singular an unusual achievement or feature that makes someone or something different from other people or things:

have/hold/gain the distinction of: She holds the distinction of having been the first woman editor of the Harvard Law Review.

This country has gained the dubious distinction of being one of the world's most dangerous places for reporters.

3. ) uncount FORMAL the excellent qualities, skills, or features that someone or something has:

of (great) distinction: We are fortunate that so many people of distinction and talent are present.

4. ) count or uncount BRITISH an honor given to a student who has achieved a very high standard, or a grade that shows this:

Kevin graduated with distinction in history and law.

get/gain a distinction: She got a distinction in her piano exam.

a ) count BRITISH FORMAL an honor given to someone who has achieved a very high standard in their work or helped many people

with/without distinction

in a way that is recognized as being extremely good/bad:

He fought with distinction in World War One.

without distinction (of something)

used for saying that something affects or includes everyone:

The aim is to guarantee the rights of all citizens without distinction of nationality, sex, education, or status.