Distinguish (Verb)
Meaning 1
Detect with the senses; "The fleeing convicts were picked out of the darkness by the watchful prison guards"; "I can't make out the faces in this photograph".
Classification
Verbs of seeing, hearing, feeling.
Examples
- From a distance, it was hard to distinguish any defining features on the faint image in the old painting.
- As she carefully examined the faded recipe, she was just able to distinguish the individual letters that made up the ingredients.
- With his failing eyesight, he could barely distinguish his grandchild's face from the other children in the school play.
- The experts struggled to distinguish the slight differences in the artist's brushstrokes on the forged painting and the original.
- The doctor could hardly distinguish the faint sounds of the heartbeat with the stethoscope, as the monitor had begun to malfunction and beep loudly.
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Meaning 2
Be a distinctive feature, attribute, or trait; sometimes in a very positive sense; "His modesty distinguishes him from his peers".
Classification
Verbs of thinking, judging, analyzing, doubting.
Examples
- Her generosity and kindness distinguish her as a remarkable philanthropist.
- His exceptional problem-solving skills distinguish him from other engineers in the company.
- The beautiful architecture of the old mansion distinguishes it from other houses in the neighborhood.
- Her extensive knowledge of classical music distinguishes her as a renowned music critic.
- His unwavering commitment to social justice distinguishes him as a dedicated community leader.
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Meaning 3
Make conspicuous or noteworthy.
Classification
Verbs of telling, asking, ordering, singing.
Examples
- Her exceptional leadership skills distinguish her as one of the top candidates for the job.
- The artist's unique style and technique distinguish his work from that of his contemporaries.
- The company's commitment to social responsibility distinguish it as a leader in its industry.
- A bright red stripe distinguish the racing car from the others in the competition.
- The chef's ability to combine seemingly incompatible flavors distinguish his cuisine from other restaurants in the city.
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Meaning 4
Identify as in botany or biology, for example.
Classification
Verbs of thinking, judging, analyzing, doubting.
Examples
- The taxonomist examined the plant's characteristics to distinguish one species from another.
- The biologist carefully observed the fruit's color and shape to distinguish it as a specific type of berry.
- Researchers struggled to distinguish between the two subspecies of birds due to their similar plumage.
- Experts use a microscope to distinguish between different types of cells in a tissue sample.
- The botanist measured the length and width of the leaves to distinguish the plant as a unique variant.
Synonyms
Meaning 5
Mark as different; "We distinguish several kinds of maple".
Classification
Verbs of thinking, judging, analyzing, doubting.
Examples
- Astronomers use various criteria to distinguish one constellation from another in the night sky.
- Her doctor was able to distinguish the different stages of her illness through meticulous observation.
- Birdwatchers distinguish various species based on their songs, habitats, and plumage.
- Manufacturers of luxury cars distinguish their high-end models from the budget versions through advanced features.
- Scientific researchers distinguish three main species of this ancient plant, each with its distinct characteristics.