distinción
“distinción” means “distinction” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
distinction
Also: difference, differentiation
📝 In Action
No hay distinción entre los dos modelos.
A2There is no distinction between the two models.
Es importante hacer una distinción clara antes de decidir.
B1It is important to make a clear distinction before deciding.
La ley se aplica a todos sin distinción de clase social.
B2The law applies to everyone without distinction of social class.
elegance
Also: class, refinement
📝 In Action
Ella viste con mucha distinción.
B2She dresses with a lot of elegance.
Su distinción natural impresiona a todos.
C1His natural class impresses everyone.
Es un hotel de gran distinción en el centro de la ciudad.
B2It is a very refined hotel in the city center.
award
Also: honor, accolade
📝 In Action
Se graduó con una distinción en matemáticas.
B1He graduated with an award in mathematics.
Recibió la máxima distinción del gobierno.
B2She received the government's highest honor.
Varias distinciones académicas adornan su oficina.
B2Several academic awards decorate his office.
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "distinción" in Spanish:
accolade→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: distinción
Question 1 of 3
If someone is praised for their 'distinción' at a gala, what are people noticing?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'distinctio', which comes from 'distinguere' (to separate or pick out). It shares the same root as the English word 'distinct'.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'distinción' always formal?
Mostly, yes. While you can use it in everyday speech, it sounds more polished than words like 'diferencia'.
Can I use 'distinción' to mean a physical distance?
No. For physical space, you must use 'distancia'. 'Distinción' is only for conceptual or quality differences.
Is it 'el distinción' or 'la distinción'?
It is always 'la distinción' because nouns ending in '-ción' are feminine.