Synonyms for
Distinguish
Definition
To recognize or perceive a difference between people or things.
Synonyms & similar words
recognise
tell
tellapart
keyout
signalize
recognize
differentiate
pickout
secernate
key
severalize
makeout
secern
separate
spot
discern
signalise
severalise
discover
describe
name
identify
mark
differentiate
discern
identify
recognize
notice
perceive
separate
contrast
discriminate
spot
diagnose
determine
decide
judge
evaluate
assess
appraise
classify
Synonyms by register
Formal
Informal
Antonyms
Common collocations
- distinguish between
- distinguish from
- distinguish the difference
- distinguish oneself
- distinguish clearly
- distinguish fact from fiction
Word family
Usage note
Often used with 'between' or 'from' to indicate what is being separated or identified. Be careful not to confuse 'distinguish' with 'extinguish'.
Example sentences
- It is important to distinguish between right and wrong.
- She is able to distinguish the different types of birds by their songs.
- The black and white stripes distinguish zebras from horses.
- It can be difficult to distinguish between identical twins.
- The expert was able to distinguish the real painting from the fake.
Quotes
The ability to distinguish between right and wrong is the foundation of moral life. - Joseph Joubert
Genius is the ability to distinguish between the inconsequential and the essential. - Elbert Hubbard
The true test of character is not how much we know how to do, but how we behave when we don't know what to do. - John Holt