differentiate (C1)

verb

Pronunciation: /ˌdɪfəˈrenʃieɪt/

Definition

To recognize or articulate the difference between two or more things.

Examples

• It is important to differentiate between correlation and causation in scientific research.

• The software can differentiate between various types of malware.

• Can you differentiate the taste of dark chocolate from milk chocolate?

How to Use differentiate

differentiate between (prepositional phrase)

To recognize or articulate the difference between two or more things. — "It is difficult to differentiate between the two similar-looking birds."

differentiate between A and B (prepositional phrase)

To recognize or articulate the difference between two specific items. — "We need to differentiate between what is fact and what is opinion."

differentiate A from B (prepositional phrase)

To distinguish one thing from another. — "The detective could differentiate the suspect's handwriting from the victim's."

differentiate into (prepositional phrase)

To develop or become specialized into a particular form or function (used in biology). — "During development, cells differentiate into specialized types like neurons and muscle cells."

Synonyms of differentiate

Words with a similar meaning to differentiate:

• distinguish
• discern
• differentiate
• delineate

Antonyms of differentiate

Words with the opposite meaning to differentiate:

• confuse
• equate

Browse the full Anaversity dictionary