Syn. -- Difference; variation, variety; contrast; diversity; contrariety; disagreement; discrimination; preference; superiority; rank; note; eminence.
Dis*tinc"tive (?), a. [Cf. F. distinctif.] 1. Marking or expressing distinction or difference; distinguishing; characteristic; peculiar.
The distinctive character and institutions of New England.
Bancroft.
2. Having the power to distinguish and discern; discriminating. [Obs.] Sir T. Browne.
Dis*tinc"tive*ly, adv. With distinction; plainly.
Dis*tinc"tive*ness, n. State of being distinctive.
Dis*tinct"ly (?), adv. 1. With distinctness; not confusedly; without the blending of one part or thing another; clearly; plainly; as, to see distinctly.