DISTINGUISH Synonyms: 154 Similar and Opposite Words

distinguish

verb

di-ˈstiŋ-(g)wish

as in to differentiate

to understand or point out the difference in even at such a young age, he could distinguish the calls of various birds

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Relevance

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as in to characterize

to be an important feature of a collection of recipes distinguished by their ease and simplicity

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as in to identify

to find out or establish the identity of learned at an early age to distinguish the sound of a piano in an orchestra

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as in to notice

to make note of (something) through the use of one's eyes could barely distinguish the garden gate through the mist

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as in to classify

to arrange or assign according to type on the exam we were asked to distinguish the specimens by acidity

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of distinguish For example, the system cannot currently distinguish between moving a full container, which requires slow, careful handling, and an empty one, which can be moved quickly. —

Jacek Krywko, ArsTechnica, 26 Apr. 2026 Technology enables simultaneous production of hydrogen The team also pointed out that this technology enables the simultaneous production of hydrogen and chemical feedstocks such as formate, distinguishing it from conventional water electrolysis processes that produce only hydrogen. —

Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 26 Apr. 2026 Virgil also made a name for himself in special teams coverage at Miami Ohio, which should distinguish him on Day 3 as someone willing to work his way into the league. —

Brooks Kubena, New York Times, 25 Apr. 2026 Edward, known for his strong piety, is also distinguished as one of the few English kings to be canonized. —

Andrea Margolis, FOXNews.com, 25 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for distinguish

Recent Examples of Synonyms for distinguish

Verb

Thissen, an associate justice, wrote a supplementary but concurring opinion objecting to certain findings in the disbarment decision, noting the court had failed to differentiate between negligent and intentional misappropriation of funds.

— Frederick Melo, Twin Cities, 30 Apr. 2026
Steller sea lions are separated into Western and Eastern populations and are differentiated by physical and genetic attributes.

— Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 30 Apr. 2026