What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
secernment
Example
The secernment between the two species was difficult to discern. [secernment: noun]
Example
She had a keen secernment for different types of fabrics. [secernment: noun]
distinction
Example
The distinction between the two paintings was clear, even to an untrained eye. [distinction: noun]
Example
He achieved distinction in his field of study by publishing several groundbreaking papers. [distinction: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Distinction is more commonly used than secernment in everyday language. Distinction is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while secernment is less common and typically used in academic or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between secernment and distinction?
Secernment is more formal and technical than distinction, which can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
