Distinguish: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when you want to tell apart or recognize the differences between things, often used for sensory perception or establishing distinctions between similar things.

• She can easily distinguish between different types of wine
• He could distinguish his friend's voice in a noisy crowd

Often used in academic or professional contexts to describe the process of showing or finding the differences between two or more things, which can include concepts, products, or features.

• It's important to differentiate between correlation and causation in scientific studies
• The new software feature differentiates this product from its competitors

While it can mean to differentiate between things, it often carries a negative connotation when referring to unfair treatment based on differences like race, age, or gender. In neutral contexts, it means to notice differences.

• The company was accused of discriminating against older employees
• He could discriminate between different shades of blue

Used when you want to isolate or divide items, people, or concepts from each other. It can be used both physically and metaphorically.

• She separated the laundry into whites and colors
• We should separate work from personal life to maintain balance

Used when you need to recognize or establish the identity of something or someone. It's often used in formal or technical contexts.

• The scientist identified the species of the insect
• She tried to identify the person responsible for the error

Generally used when referring to the ability to understand or perceive something obscure, subtle, or complex. It often implies a level of insight or judgment.

• She could discern a hint of sarcasm in his voice
• It takes a keen eye to discern the subtle differences in artwork

Use this word when you need to recognize or point out the differences between two or more things.

• She can easily distinguish between classical and jazz music

This word is commonly used in technical, scientific, or academic settings to specify clear differences.

• It is important to differentiate between similar biological species

This word is suitable when you physically or conceptually divide or disconnect things, often for clarity or organization.

• Please separate recyclable items from the trash

This word is used to describe the unique features or qualities that define someone or something.

• The report characterized the company as highly innovative

Use this word when you want to emphasize the unique qualities of a person or thing, often in a personalized context.

• The teacher individualized the lesson plans to meet each student's needs

Use this word when you want to show a clear difference between two or more things, especially in a detailed or analytical manner.

• It's hard to distinguish between the two twins
• He can easily distinguish classical music from jazz

This word is often used in contexts where you need to show how things are different, especially in technical, academic, or specialized areas.

• It's important to differentiate between fact and opinion
• Researchers are trying to differentiate between the two species

This word is appropriate when talking about perceiving or recognizing something that is not immediately obvious, often implying careful attention or insight.

• He could barely discern a figure in the fog
• It took me a while to discern the pattern in the data

Use this when you are pointing out or naming something specific, usually after some kind of analysis or observation.

• Can you identify this plant? The witness was able to identify the suspect

This word is best used when talking about acknowledging something that you have seen or experienced before.

• I didn't recognize him without his glasses
• She quickly recognized the tune

This word is best for physical division or keeping things apart, but it can also be used in abstract or figurative contexts.

• We need to separate the recyclables from the trash
• They decided to separate work and personal life