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Showing results for distinguish. Search instead for distinguish/4.
Definitions

distinguish

[dih-sting-gwish] / dɪˈstɪŋ gwɪʃ /
VERB
tell the difference
Synonyms
STRONGEST
analyze categorize characterize determine differentiate discriminate divide figure out identify know qualify recognize separate
STRONG
ascertain classify collate decide demarcate diagnose estimate extricate finger individualize individuate judge label mark name part pinpoint place select sift signalize singularize specify spot tag
WEAK
determinate diagnosticate make out mark off set apart set off single out sort out tell apart tell between tell from
Antonyms
STRONGEST
allow combine confuse connect join link miss misunderstand mix up unite
STRONG
ignore lose overlook
VERB
discern, identify
Synonyms
STRONGEST
detect discover discriminate know notice perceive read recognize see
STRONG
beam catch descry dig eye eyeball flash focus mark note observe remark spot spy tell view
WEAK
get a load of get an eyeful make out pick out pick up on take in
Antonyms
STRONGEST
ignore misinterpret miss misunderstand neglect overlook pass by
VERB
make famous
Synonyms
STRONGEST
admire
STRONG
acknowledge celebrate dignify honor immortalize praise signalize
WEAK
pay tribute to
Antonyms
STRONG
condemn denounce disgrace disregard ignore reproach shame

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Without clear terminology, it can be difficult to distinguish between structures formed by physical forces and those created by living organisms.

From Science Daily • Apr. 3, 2026

Understanding that dynamic helps explain why it is essential to distinguish the present dispute from cases in which courts are being asked to intervene to protect democratic participation.

From Slate • Mar. 31, 2026

But it’s critical to distinguish between weaker firms and established operators with disciplined processes.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 30, 2026

Under international humanitarian law, all parties to a conflict must distinguish between civilian objects and military objectives.

From BBC • Mar. 27, 2026

The brook was swollen and Hazel’s ears could distinguish the deeper, smoother sound, changed since the day before.

From "Watership Down: A Novel" by Richard Adams

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.