Word
distinctively
Phoneticsdis·tinc·tive·ly, stress on the second syllable
US/dɪˈstɪŋktɪvɫi/
UK/dɪstˈɪŋktɪvli/
Adverb of manner
Definition
adv. in a way that is clearly different from everything else. You use this to describe something that has a unique style or sound that makes it easy to recognize.
adv. in a manner that is clearly different or separate from others; in a way that is easily recognized as unique. Often modifies adjectives or verbs to emphasize a specific quality.
Examples
“The singer has a distinctively deep voice.”
“The architect designed the building to be distinctively modern, using glass and steel to contrast with the surrounding stone.”
“The author's style is distinctively lyrical, blending poetic imagery with a sharp, analytical perspective that sets her apart from her contemporaries.”
Examples
simple
“The singer has a distinctively deep voice.”
contextual
“The architect designed the building to be distinctively modern, using glass and steel to contrast with the surrounding stone.”
complex
“The author's style is distinctively lyrical, blending poetic imagery with a sharp, analytical perspective that sets her apart from her contemporaries.”
Real-World Examples
“A new study of bonnethead sharks (Sphyrna tiburo) in Florida is challenging a previous explanation for how males and females develop their distinctively different head shapes.” “Third, and most distinctively, other examples showed the older sibling taking on the role of a provocateur, intentionally teasing or provoking emotions in the younger sibling during a task.” Word family
ADJECTIVE
ADVERB
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
- アルファベット
- 読み方の一覧 →
QR code
englishreference.com/q/distinctively