Distinguish Meaning and Definition
Distinguish
Pronunciation
/ˈdɪsˌtɪŋɪʃ/
Part of Speech
Noun or Verb
Definition
The act or process of perceiving, identifying, or recognizing a difference or dissimilarity between two or more things.
Examples
- The detective spent hours distinguishing the suspect from the witness.
- The difference in voice tone allowed me to distinguish the two speakers.
Synonyms
- Differentiate
- Discern
Antonyms
- Mix
- Confuse
Etymology
The word “distinguish” originates from the Latin “distinguere”, meaning “to separate” or “to distinguish”.
Usage Notes
Distinguish is often used in formal writing, such as academic texts, and in law and medicine. In everyday conversation, the verb “differentiate” is more commonly used.
Cultural References
In the TV show “House M.D.”, the main character House is known for his exceptional ability to distinguish between different diseases and diagnoses.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- To draw a line
- To separate the wheat from the chaff
Related Words or Phrases
- Discern
- Differentiate
- Identify
Collocations
- Distinguish between
- Distinguish from
Frequency of Use
Distinguish is a relatively uncommon verb in everyday conversation, but it is commonly used in formal writing and professional settings.
Common Misspellings
- Distinquish
- Distingle