Meaning & Definition of word "Differentiate"

Differentiate

/dɪˈfɛr.ən.ʃeɪt/

verb:

  • 1. to recognize or ascertain what makes something different.
    • Example: It is important to differentiate between fact and opinion in an argument.
  • 2. to identify the differences between two or more items.
    • Example: The teacher asked the students to differentiate between the three types of triangles.
  • 3. to make or become different in the process of development.
    • Example: The company aims to differentiate its product in a saturated market.
  • 4. to cause to be recognized as distinct.
    • Example: The artist's unique style helps to differentiate her work from that of her contemporaries.

Etymology

Late Middle English: from Latin 'differentia', from 'differre' meaning 'to differ'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

differentiate oneself:

To establish a unique identity or character.

differentiate between:

To identify the differences in two or more things.

Related Words

distinguish:

To recognize or treat as different.

discriminate:

To make a distinction in favor of or against a person or group.

Slang Meanings of differentiate

Meaning: To choose one option over another based on unique features.

Example Sentence: I'm trying to differentiate the good offers from the bad ones.

Meaning: To show a unique quality or feature that stands out.

Example Sentence: His style really differentiates him from the other artists.