What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
distinct
Example
The distinct smell of freshly baked bread filled the room. [distinct: adjective]
Example
Her voice had a distinct accent that was hard to place. [distinct: adjective]
distinguishable
Example
The markings on the butterfly's wings were distinguishable from other species. [distinguishable: adjective]
Example
The two paintings were similar, but the brushstrokes were distinguishable upon closer inspection. [distinguishable: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Distinct is more commonly used than distinguishable in everyday language, and is more versatile in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between distinct and distinguishable?
Distinguishable can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while distinct is more commonly associated with a formal tone.
