What does distinctive mean Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/dɪˈstɪŋktɪv/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Adjective

Definition

Examples

• The artist’s distinctive style was evident in all her works.
• The restaurant’s distinctive flavor was a result of its secret recipe.

Synonyms

• Unique
• Characteristic
• Idiosyncratic

Antonyms

• Ordinary
• Common
• Unremarkable

Additional Information

The term “distinctive” is often used to describe something that stands out from the crowd, whether it’s a person’s personality, a work of art, or a product’s design. It implies a sense of individuality and uniqueness that sets it apart from others. In marketing, distinctive branding is crucial to creating a memorable and recognizable identity for a company or product.

In everyday life, people often strive to be distinctive in their own way, whether through their fashion sense, their hobbies, or their interests. Being distinctive can be a source of pride and confidence, as it allows individuals to express themselves and showcase their personality.

Etymology

The word “distinctive” comes from the Latin “distinctus,” meaning “distinguished” or “separated.” It has been used in the English language since the 15th century to describe something that is unique or characteristic.

Usage Notes

The word “distinctive” can be used in a variety of contexts, including art, design, marketing, and everyday conversation. It is often used to describe something that is unique or characteristic, but it can also be used to describe something that is simply recognizable or identifiable.

Cultural References

The concept of distinctiveness has been explored in various forms of media, including literature, film, and music. For example, the novel “The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger features a protagonist who struggles to find his place in the world and be distinctive in his own way.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• “Distinctive mark” (a unique feature or characteristic that sets something apart)
• “Distinctive voice” (a unique tone or style of speaking)

Related Words or Phrases

• Unique
• Characteristic
• Idiosyncratic
• Individualistic

Collocations

• “Distinctive style”
• “Distinctive flavor”
• “Distinctive sound”

Frequency of Use

The word “distinctive” is commonly used in everyday conversation, particularly in the context of art, design, and marketing. It is also frequently used in academic and professional writing to describe unique or characteristic features of a subject or topic.

Common Misspellings

• “Distinctiv”
• “Distinctif”
• “Distinctivly”