distinction

différence, distinction

Différence entre des choses qui permet de les reconnaître comme distinctes.

En anglais simple : A difference between things that helps you see them as separate.

• The distinction is important.
• She explained the distinction between needs and wants.
• These distinctions are often difficult to see.

Comment l'utiliser : distinction between A and B (There is a clear distinction between a wish and a plan.)

Synonymes : difference

Contraires : similarity

Expressions courantes : clear distinction, subtle distinction, draw a distinction, class distinction

différenciation, distinction

Action de reconnaître des différences entre des choses ou de les traiter différemment.

En anglais simple : The act of recognizing or treating things as different from each other.

• The rules apply without distinction.
• We make no distinction between new and returning customers.
• A careful distinction between fact and opinion is necessary.

Comment l'utiliser : make a distinction between A and B (We make a distinction between accidents and deliberate damage.); without distinction of something (Everyone may apply without distinction of age.)

Synonymes : differentiation, discrimination

Expressions courantes : make a distinction, without distinction, distinction between groups

excellence, distinction

Qualité remarquable d’une réussite qui attire l’attention et le respect des autres.

En anglais simple : A high standard of achievement that earns people's respect and attention.

• She completed the course with distinction.
• He became a writer of great distinction.
• Few musicians have achieved such distinction.

Comment l'utiliser : with distinction (She served her community with distinction.); of distinction (He was a scientist of distinction.)

Synonymes : excellence, eminence

Expressions courantes : with distinction, great distinction, artist of distinction