Differentiate: meaning, definitions and examples

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differentiate

 

[ˌdɪfəˈrɛnʃieɪt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in decision making

To recognize or point out a difference; to distinguish; to make distinct.

Synonyms

contrast, discriminate, distinguish, separate.

Examples of usage

  • It is important to differentiate between right and wrong.
  • Can you differentiate the original painting from the copy?
Context #2 | Verb

in biology

To develop different characteristics or functions; to become specialized.

Synonyms

diversify, evolve, specialize.

Examples of usage

  • Cells in the body differentiate to perform specific tasks.
  • Stem cells can differentiate into various types of cells.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'differentia', meaning 'difference'.
  • Its roots can be traced back to the prefix 'dis-' meaning 'apart', and 'ferre', meaning 'to carry'.
  • It was first used in the English language in the 15th century.

Science

  • In biology, the process of differentiation helps cells develop into distinct types, such as muscle or nerve cells.
  • Differentiation is a key concept in calculus, where it refers to finding the rate of change of a function.
  • In education, differentiation refers to tailoring teaching methods to meet diverse student needs.

Literature

  • Differentiation in themes can show contrasting characters, allowing readers to understand deeper meanings.
  • Literary critics often differentiate between genres to analyze writing styles and reader expectations.
  • Authors may use differentiation in character development to highlight growth and change in their stories.

Psychology

  • Cognitive differentiation helps individuals categorize information and discern between similar stimuli.
  • Psychological theories on self-differentiation emphasize the importance of establishing one's own identity apart from group norms.
  • Children learn differentiation skills during development, which aid in social interactions and emotional intelligence.

Pop Culture

  • In the world of marketing, brands strive to differentiate themselves from competitors to attract consumers.
  • Television shows often differentiate characters through distinct personalities and story arcs, making them memorable to viewers.
  • The rise of social media has created a culture where individuals seek to differentiate themselves through personal branding and unique content.

Translations

Translations of the word "differentiate" in other languages:

🇵🇹 diferenciar

🇮🇳 अंतर करना

🇩🇪 unterscheiden

🇮🇩 membedakan

🇺🇦 відрізняти

🇵🇱 rozróżniać

🇯🇵 区別する (kūbetsu suru)

🇫🇷 différencier

🇪🇸 diferenciar

🇹🇷 ayırmak

🇰🇷 구별하다 (gubyeolhada)

🇸🇦 تمييز (tamayyoz)

🇨🇿 rozlišovat

🇸🇰 rozlišovať

🇨🇳 区分 (qūfēn)

🇸🇮 razlikovati

🇮🇸 aðgreina

🇰🇿 айыру

🇬🇪 განსხვავება (ganskhvaveba)

🇦🇿 fərqləndirmək

🇲🇽 diferenciar

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,514 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.