distinguish

Definitions

1. 1transitive verb

   Not set apart from others by visible marks; to make distinctive or discernible by exhibiting differences; to mark off by some characteristic.

2. 2transitive verb

   To separate by definition of terms or logical division of a subject with regard to difference; as, to distinguish sounds into high and low.

3. 3transitive verb

   To recognize or discern by marks, signs, or characteristic quality or qualities; to know and discriminate (anything) from other things with which it might be confounded; as, to distinguish the sound of a drum.

4. 4transitive verb

   To constitute a difference; to make to differ.

5. 5transitive verb

   To separate from others by a mark of honor; to make eminent or known; to confer distinction upon; -- with by or for.

6. 6intransitive verb

   To make distinctions; to perceive the difference; to exercise discrimination; -- with between; as, a judge distinguishes between cases apparently similar, but differing in principle.

7. 7intransitive verb

   To become distinguished or distinctive; to make one's self or itself discernible.

8. 8verb

   mark as different

   "We distinguish several kinds of maple"

   Synonyms

   differentiatesecernseparateseveralizetell
9. 9verb

   be a distinctive feature, attribute, or trait; sometimes in a very positive sense

   "His modesty distinguishes him from his peers"

   Synonyms

   differentiatemark
10. 10verb

    identify as in botany or biology, for example

    Synonyms

    describediscoveridentifykeyname
11. 11verb

    make conspicuous or noteworthy

    Synonyms

    signalisesignalize
12. 12verb

    detect with the senses

    "The fleeing convicts were picked out of the darkness by the watchful prison guards"

    "I can't make out the faces in this photograph"

    Synonyms

    discernrecogniserecognizespot