Differentiate vs. Distinguish

Differentiate vs. Distinguish — Is There a Difference?
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Difference Between Differentiate and Distinguish

Differentiateverb

(transitive) To show, or be the distinction between two things.

Distinguishverb

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

Differentiateverb

(intransitive) To perceive the difference between things; to discriminate.

Distinguishverb

To see someone or something clearly or distinctly.

Differentiateverb

To modify, or be modified.

Distinguishverb

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

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

To calculate the derivative of a function.

Distinguishverb

To make to differ.

Differentiateverb

To calculate the differential of a function of multiple variables.

Distinguishverb

mark as different;

We distinguish several kinds of maple

Differentiateverb

To produce distinct organs or to achieve specific functions by a process of development called differentiation.

Distinguishverb

detect with the senses;

The fleeing convicts were picked out of the darkness by the watchful prison guardsI can't make out the faces in this photograph
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Differentiatenoun

(geology) Something that has been differentiated or stratified.

Distinguishverb

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

His modesty distinguishes him form his peers

Differentiateverb

mark as different;

We distinguish several kinds of maple

Distinguishverb

make conspicuous or noteworthy

Differentiateverb

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

His modesty distinguishes him form his peers

Distinguishverb

identify as in botany or biology, for example

Differentiateverb

calculate a derivative; take the derivative

Differentiateverb

become different during development;

cells differentiate

Differentiateverb

evolve so as to lead to a new species or develop in a way most suited to the environment

Differentiateverb

become distinct and acquire a different character