Distinctive Meaning
Distinctive Definition & Usage
Having a quality or feature that makes something clearly different or easily recognizable from other things.
Examples
- "Her distinctive voice made her stand out among other singers."
- "The restaurant's distinctive décor attracted many curious customers."
- "The logo's distinctive design was a key part of the brand's identity."
- "His distinctive handwriting was immediately recognizable to all his colleagues."
- "The old church was distinctive for its tall, pointed spire."
Referring to a particular characteristic or feature that distinguishes a species, group, or entity from others, particularly in biological or technical contexts.
Examples
- "The scientist noted the distinctive markings on the butterfly's wings, which helped in identifying the species."
- "This variety of apple is distinctive for its sweetness and smooth texture."
- "The car engine is distinctive due to its innovative use of hybrid technology."
- "In this rare bird species, the distinctive call helps attract mates during breeding season."
- "The software's distinctive user interface makes it easy to navigate for both experts and beginners."
Cultural Context
The word 'distinctive' has been in use since the late Middle Ages, originating from the Latin word 'distinctus', meaning 'separate' or 'set apart'. It is frequently used to describe features, characteristics, or qualities that make an object, person, or concept easily identifiable. In modern contexts, it can apply to everything from product branding to biological classifications.
The Distinctive Call of the Wild
Story
The Distinctive Call of the Wild
In the dense, foggy woods, Anna and Ben had been tracking the mysterious bird species for days. The forest was eerily quiet, except for the occasional rustling of leaves and the distant call of wildlife. Anna, an ornithologist, had spent years studying different bird species, but this one was unlike anything she had encountered before. Its call was distinctive, a deep, resonating sound that seemed to echo through the trees. It wasn't just loud; it had a quality to it that made it unmistakable from the other birds in the area. 'Look!' Ben pointed towards a tall oak tree. There, perched atop a branch, was the bird they'd been searching for. It was striking, with feathers that shimmered in the sunlight, their golden hue standing out in the dim light of the forest. Its beak was long and curved, a distinctive feature that matched the description Anna had studied in her field guides. As they moved closer, Anna couldn't help but marvel at how easily the bird stood out from the usual forest inhabitants. Despite the complexity of the environment, this bird was unmistakable, a living symbol of nature's artistry. Later, when they returned to the lab, Anna documented her findings. The bird's distinctive markings, vocalizations, and behavior would help refine the species' classification. It was clear that this discovery would have a lasting impact on ornithology. Anna smiled as she reflected on the significance of the word 'distinctive'. In her life, it wasn't just a scientific term—it was a lens through which she saw the world, always searching for what set things apart. Whether it was a rare bird, a unique pattern in data, or the unforgettable aroma of a new species of flower, the distinctive qualities of nature had always fascinated her.
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