distinguish
/dɪˈstɪŋ.ɡwɪʃ/
Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.
Also seen as: distinguishes · distinguishing
Sense 1
Meaning · English
To recognize someone or something as different from others based on its characteristics.
Verb
Examples
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.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
Meaning · English
To see someone or something clearly or distinctly.
Verb
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “distinguish” mean?
To recognize someone or something as different from others based on its characteristics.
Is “distinguish” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.