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distinguish between — to recognize or show the difference between two or more things

Part of speech: NOUN

Definition: to recognize or show the difference between two or more things

Pronunciation (IPA): /dɪˈstɪŋɡwɪʃ bɪˈtwiːn/

Example Sentences

  • My mom still can't distinguish between me and my twin brother on the phone.
  • Students need to learn how to distinguish between reliable and unreliable sources.
  • Can you distinguish between Pepsi and Coke in a blind taste test?

distinguish between

NOUN

[/dɪˈstɪŋɡwɪʃ bɪˈtwiːn/]

to recognize or show the difference between two or more things

A jeweler uses a loupe to distinguish between a real diamond and a clever fake.
💡 Concept

A jeweler uses a loupe to distinguish between a real diamond and a clever fake.

Distinguish between the tools, extinguish the flames, and finish the mission!
🎵 Rhyme

Distinguish between the tools, extinguish the flames, and finish the mission!

Got the picture? Now let's practice.

🎤Pronunciation

🇺🇸 US/dɪˈstɪŋɡwɪʃ bɪˈtwiːn/
🇬🇧 UK/dɪˈstɪŋɡwɪʃ bɪˈtwiːn/

🌳Etymology

Prefixdis--
Rootstingu-
Suffix--ish

Origin

Derived from Latin distinguere, meaning 'to separate and mark.' The term originates from the Roman practice of branding livestock with distinctive marks to identify and differentiate them from one another.

Breakdown

dis- (apart, separate) + stinguere (to prick, mark, pierce). The prefix dis- indicates separation, while stinguere refers to the action of making a mark or puncturing.

🎵Rhyme

extinguish
relinquish
finish

🔗Collocations

distinguish between right and wrong
distinguish between fact and opinion
distinguish between different types
clearly distinguish between
hard to distinguish between
distinguish between similar things

📝Examples

😄 Fun example

“My mom still can't distinguish between me and my twin brother on the phone.”

“Students need to learn how to distinguish between reliable and unreliable sources.”

😄 Fun example

“Can you distinguish between Pepsi and Coke in a blind taste test?”

“It's important to distinguish between constructive criticism and personal attacks.”

📚Related Words

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