Distinguish

Definition

Distinguish refers to the act of recognizing or perceiving a difference between two or more things, or to make someone or something stand out due to unique characteristics. It can also mean to succeed in making something clear or recognizable.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈstɪŋɡwɪʃ/
• Respelling: dih-STING-gwish

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈstɪŋɡwɪʃ/
• Respelling: dih-STING-gwish

The pronunciation of "distinguish" is the same in both American and British English, with no significant variations.

Etymology

The word "distinguish" comes from the Latin word "distinguere," meaning "to separate" or "to mark off," composed of "dis-" meaning "apart" and "stinguere" meaning "to prick" or "to mark." It entered the English language in the late 16th century, carrying its original meaning of "to recognize a difference."

Derivatives

• Distinguished (adjective)
• Distinguishable (adjective)
• Distinguishing (adjective)
• Indistinguishable (adjective)
• Distinction (noun)

Synonyms

• Differentiate
• Discern
• Identify

Antonyms

• Confuse
• Blend
• Mix up

Usage

The term "distinguish" is used in both formal and informal contexts to describe the act of differentiating between two or more things. It is often employed in academic, professional, and everyday settings to express the idea of recognizing differences, whether between concepts, objects, or individuals. It is also commonly used to describe someone's achievement that makes them stand out.

Related Terms

• Discriminate: To recognize a distinction, especially in a negative context.
• Compare: To estimate, measure, or note the similarity or difference between things.
• Differentiate: To recognize or ascertain what makes someone or something different.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To recognize or show the difference between two or more things: Refers to perceiving or identifying distinctions between things.
  • Example: "It’s often difficult to distinguish between identical twins."
• To make someone or something stand out due to unique characteristics: Describes the act of making something noticeable due to specific traits.
  • Example: "Her quick thinking distinguished her from her peers."
• To perceive clearly or recognize: Used when someone is able to identify or recognize something with clarity.
  • Example: "In the fog, it was hard to distinguish the path."