1
Tell alternatives apart
Identify which of two similar explanations applies.
Example
The evidence cannot distinguish between the competing models.
distinguish between
/dɪˈstɪŋɡwɪʃ bɪˌtwiːn/ · dih-STING-gwish bih-TWEENreasoning phrase
Recognise or explain the relevant difference between two or more things.
Use distinguish between to signal this exact relationship between ideas: recognise or explain the relevant difference between two or more things.
What distinguish between Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Separate concepts
Prevent related ideas from being confused.
Example
The essay distinguishes between authority and expertise.
3
Discriminate categories
Classify observations using meaningful criteria.
Example
The scale distinguishes between minor and severe damage.
Use distinguish between Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The evidence cannot distinguish between the competing models.
The essay distinguishes between authority and expertise.
The scale distinguishes between minor and severe damage.
Precision Matters
Distinguish between overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
distinguish between
vs.Signals recognise or explain the relevant difference between two or more things.
differentiate from
Means identify, mark, or show how one thing differs from another.
distinguish between
vs.Signals recognise or explain the relevant difference between two or more things.
draw a distinction
Means identify and articulate an important difference between ideas, groups, or cases.
distinguish between
vs.Signals recognise or explain the relevant difference between two or more things.
distinct from
Means clearly separate or different in identity, character, or category.
distinguish between
vs.Signals recognise or explain the relevant difference between two or more things.
be comparable to
Means be sufficiently similar in relevant respects to permit comparison.
Test distinguish between in Context
The reasoning requires the two kinds of change to be recognised as different.
1
Researchers must ___ temporary variation and a lasting shift before claiming that the climate changed.