Strategic Purpose:
Authors use distinctio to give the an intended definition of a word in a certain context. Sometimes words are ambiguous in meaning, and distinctio can help clear up any confusion about a definition that is being used. It gives authors the opportunity to change the meaning of the word depending on the time, place, or situation of the event that is being discussed. Distinctio is indicated by a phrase following the word that needs a definition to be clear.
For readers who aren't open-minded with definitions, distinctio can be a very helpful tool that an author can use to make sure the meaning of a word being used is clear. It appears every now and then, usually with terms that don't have a concrete definition, or with terms that can change meaning depending on context. With distinctio, authors are able to properly make a definition clear without rambling or sounding awkward, by adding its meaning in context right after a mention of the word.
Steps for Analysis:
First, begin by identifying the character or thing that is being defined or clarified by a phrase
Usually this is separated by a period or a comma, with the character or thing being first, with the phrase coming after.
The phrase is meant to give a specific definition for a word that can have multiple meanings, depending on the context.
Questions to Consider:
Does the term have a concrete definition? If yes, then think about why it could be ambiguous.
Why did the author choose to use distinctio?
Nonfiction Prose Example & Analysis:
"It depends upon what the meaning of the word 'is' is. If 'is' means 'is and never has been,' that's one thing. If it means 'there is none,' that was a completely true statement" - Bill Clinton
This example is from a court hearing with Bill Clinton regarding a sexual relations scandal with Monica Lewinsky. When he is asked whether it was true if Clinton had relations with Lewinsky, Clinton uses distinctio to essentially avoid answering the question, despite the definition of "is" being clear. He questions the definition of the word "is" in the context of the question, saying that there was a difference between the definitions, "is and never has been" and "there is none". He denies any relations with Lewinsky, but isn't in any way transparent about his situation.
Clinton uses distinctio in a different way than usually seen. Instead of a singular definition following the word being clarified, he brings up two definitions, stating one that would better fit his situation. He uses distinctio to defend his stance and to avoid answering the question.