English-French translations for distinction

distinction
Cette distinction est essentielle. This distinction is essential. C'est une distinction de taille. That is an important distinction. Il s'agit d'une distinction fondamentale. This is a fundamental distinction.
différence
Il est important de faire la différence. It is important to draw that distinction. Il y a une nette différence entre ces deux notions. There is a clear distinction between the two. Il importe à ce sujet d'introduire une fine différence. I think we should make a fine distinction here.

discriminationToutes les différenciations ne constituent cependant pas une discrimination. Not all distinctions are regarded as discrimination, however. Il est donc légalement obligé de les respecter, sans distinction et sans discrimination. Thereby it has the legal obligation to respect them, without distinction or discrimination. Nous sommes conscients de la fréquente difficulté de clarifier cette discrimination. We understand the argument that it is often difficult to make a clear distinction.
distinguoPourtant, la directive ne fait pas le distinguo entre ces deux types d’activités. The directive does not, however, draw a distinction between these two types of activity. Selon nous, il convient d'établir un net distinguo entre l'assistance humanitaire et l'aide à la reconstruction. We believe a clear distinction needs to be made between humanitarian aid and aid to reconstruction.

That which distinguishes; a single occurrence of a determining factor or feature, the fact of being divided; separation, discrimination
Specifically, a feature that causes someone or something to stand out as being better; a mark of honour, rank, eminence or excellence; being distinguished

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