differentiate

verb C1

Meaning

To differentiate means to recognize or ascertain what makes something distinct or to establish a distinction between two or more entities, often involving a nuanced understanding of their characteristics, qualities, or functions in a specific context.
💡 It is important to avoid conflating "differentiate" with "discriminate," as the latter often carries a negative connotation related to unfair treatment based on characteristics such as race or gender, whereas "differentiate" is a neutral term focused on distinction.

Example Sentences

Companies must differentiate their products to attract more customers .
It is important to differentiate between fact and opinion in writing .
It is important to differentiate between facts and opinions in reports .
Researchers differentiate between variables to analyze their specific impacts accurately .

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