distinction vs separation

distinction

noun
  • That which distinguishes; a single occurrence of a determining factor or feature, the fact of being divided; separation, discrimination. 

  • The act of distinguishing, discriminating; 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. 

separation

noun
  • The act of disuniting two or more things, or the condition of being separated. 

  • Departure from active duty, while not necessarily leaving the service entirely. 

  • An agreement legalizing such an arrangement. 

  • An object that separates two spaces. 

  • The act or condition of two or more people being separated from one another. 

  • The place at which a division occurs. 

  • An interval, gap or space that separates things or people. 

  • The act or condition of a married couple living in separate homes while remaining legally married. 

How often have the words distinction and separation occurred in a corpus of books? (source: Google Ngram Viewer )