A couple of weeks ago I spoke about the importance of the little things in our writing. Today I have another little thing for your attention. It’s the proper use of the word distinguish.
Consider the example in the graphic above. Often writers use the word distinguish to highlight a difference between two ideas or items. But those who don’t recognize the difference between written English and spoken English can produce less effective prose.
The example sentence in the graphic may sound acceptable in certain circles. But in written English the use of and with distinguish is simply not appropriate. And is a conjunction which connotes a joining or uniting. Joining and uniting act contrary to the notion of highlighting differences. Thus, the use of and with distinguish is just not appropriate.
Instead use from with distinguish. From is a preposition that connotes separation, an idea consistent with highlighting differences. Here’s an effective revision of the example sentence.
Consider the example in the graphic above. Often writers use the word distinguish to highlight a difference between two ideas or items. But those who don’t recognize the difference between written English and spoken English can produce less effective prose.
The example sentence in the graphic may sound acceptable in certain circles. But in written English the use of and with distinguish is simply not appropriate. And is a conjunction which connotes a joining or uniting. Joining and uniting act contrary to the notion of highlighting differences. Thus, the use of and with distinguish is just not appropriate.
Instead use from with distinguish. From is a preposition that connotes separation, an idea consistent with highlighting differences. Here’s an effective revision of the example sentence.
The preliminary report distinguishes the performance differences of the single cycle turbine from those of the combined cycle facility.
Remember to use from with distinguish and not and. Always distinguish written English from spoken English, and you’ve won half the battle of becoming an effective writer.
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