distinctive

[dih-stingk-tiv] / dɪˈstɪŋk tɪv /

ADJECTIVE

different, unique

Synonyms

STRONGEST

cool extraordinary idiosyncratic offbeat original peculiar singular special weird

WEAK

characteristic diacritic diagnostic discrete distinguishing excellent far cry gnarly individual like night and day outstanding perfect poles apart proper separate single superior typical uncommon unreal wicked

Antonyms

STRONGEST

common commonplace normal ordinary regular usual

WEAK

resembling same similar standard

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

She wants this now to be a "global mission" and the city was chosen because of its distinctive approach to early years learning.

From BBC • May 12, 2026

They move and feed by extending parts of their cell body, a process that gives them their distinctive shape.

From Science Daily • May 2, 2026

Buzz electric van, which itself is inspired by one of German company’s most distinctive machines, the Volkswagen bus.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 1, 2026

These are the dishes that hold up in real kitchens and real routines—reliable, satisfying and just distinctive enough to feel worth repeating.

From Salon • Apr. 28, 2026

“I am already married” she remarks to the empty air, twisting the ring on her right hand that covers an old, distinctive scar.

From "The Night Circus" by Erin Morgenstern

Vocabulary lists containing distinctive

The Giver

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Walk Two Moons

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The Breadwinner

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