distinguish

verb
UK: /dɪˈstɪŋ.ɡwɪʃ/
US: /dɪˈstɪŋ.ɡwɪʃ/

  1. To notice or understand the difference between two things.

    1. I can distinguish a bird by its song.
    2. It's hard to distinguish fact from fiction in the report so we must reread it.

  2. To be a clear and obvious example of (a particular quality).

    1. His bravery did distinguish him.
    2. What qualities distinguish a leader from just a regular manager in the office?

  3. To make yourself noticeable or respected.

    1. He distinguished himself in the war.
    2. She distinguished herself as a talented surgeon so everybody knows her in our city.

Synonyms

differentiate discern separate contrast
distinguish adjective

  1. Special and excellent.

    1. She's a distinguished artist.
    2. He is a distinguished professor of economics from the best university.

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "distinguish" in English means: To notice or understand the difference between two things., To be a clear and obvious example of (a particular quality)., To make yourself noticeable or respected..

The phonetic transcription of "distinguish" is /dɪˈstɪŋ.ɡwɪʃ/ in British English and /dɪˈstɪŋ.ɡwɪʃ/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "distinguish": differentiate, discern, separate, contrast.

Example usage of "distinguish": "I can distinguish a bird by its song.". More examples on the page.