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 air. [distinct: adjective]
Example
Her voice had a distinct accent that was hard to place. [distinct: adjective]
individual
Example
Each individual has their own strengths and weaknesses. [individual: noun]
Example
She has an individual style that sets her apart from others. [individual: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Individual is more commonly used than distinct in everyday language. Individual is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while distinct is less common and refers to a specific quality or feature that sets something apart.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between distinct and individual?
Distinct is more formal than individual, which is more commonly used in everyday language and informal contexts.
