distintivo
“distintivo” means “distinctive” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
distinctive
Also: characteristic, distinguishing
📝 In Action
Su voz tiene un tono muy distintivo que todos reconocen.
B1Her voice has a very distinctive tone that everyone recognizes.
El color azul brillante es el rasgo distintivo de esta especie de ave.
B2The bright blue color is the distinguishing feature of this bird species.
Buscamos un estilo distintivo para nuestra nueva línea de ropa.
C1We are looking for a distinctive style for our new clothing line.
badge
Also: emblem, insignia, hallmark
📝 In Action
Todos los empleados deben llevar su distintivo en la solapa.
B1All employees must wear their badge on their lapel.
El oficial mostró su distintivo antes de entrar al edificio.
B2The officer showed his badge before entering the building.
La calidad es el distintivo de nuestra empresa.
C1Quality is the hallmark of our company.
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "distintivo" in Spanish:
badge→characteristic→distinctive→distinguishing→emblem→hallmark→insignia→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: distintivo
Question 1 of 3
Which of these is a 'rasgo distintivo' of a zebra?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'distinctivus', which comes from 'distinguere' (to separate or distinguish). It shares the same root as the English word 'distinct'.
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'distinto' and 'distintivo'?
'Distinto' simply means 'different' (not the same). 'Distintivo' means 'characteristic' or 'unique'—it's the thing that makes something stand out from the rest.
Can I use 'distintivo' for a name tag?
Yes, 'distintivo' is a very common way to refer to name tags or ID badges worn at conferences or work.
Is 'distintivo' formal?
It is slightly more formal than words like 'especial' or 'marca', but it is used regularly in news, business, and daily professional life.