distinguish

present (v1)

distinguish

past (v2)

distinguished

past participle (v3)

distinguished

present participle

distinguishing

3rd person singular

distinguishes

1. 1.To recognize someone or something as different from others based on its characteristics.

   • The physics of elementary particles in the 20th century was distinguished by the observation of particles whose existence had been predicted by theorists sometimes decades earlier.
   • It had begun to take a leading place even in the days of the Ptolemies, and in scientific, as distinguished from purely literary work, it had assumed a position of primary importance early in the Christian era.

2. 2.To see someone or something clearly or distinctly.

3. 3.To make noticeably different or better from others through accomplishments.

   • The soldier distinguished himself in combat and received a medal.

4. 4.To confer an honor upon.

   • The soldier was distinguished with a medal for his bravery.

Overall

Uncommon· #3694

By learning goal

Everyday conversation

Rare

General reading & writing

Uncommon

Academic

Uncommon

Literature

Rare

Synonyms

• separate
• tell