Words / B2

di-STINGKTL-ee/dɪˈstɪŋktli/

Distinctly means in a way that is clear and easy to notice, or definitely: distinctly different; I distinctly remember. Distinct is the adjective (already in the dictionary); clearly is the everyday twin. The two peaks are distinctly separate on the chromatogram. Mix-up: distinctly vs instinctively; extinctly (not a word); do not write distinctly for a vague impression with no named difference.

Meaning

In a way that is clear and easy to notice; also definitely (I distinctly remember).

Examples

• “The two peaks are distinctly separate on the chromatogram, the practical said.”
• “She distinctly remembered the clause, the witness said, which is the definitely sense — still quote the wording.”

Good to know

distinctly + adjective; distinctly remember. Adjective: distinct. Close: clearly / definitely. Trap: instinctively. Science, methods, and citizenship. Clearly, or definitely — name the difference or quote the wording.

Near in meaning

clearly, definitely, markedly

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