distinguishing

[ dih-sting-gwi-shing ]

adjective

1. distinctive; characteristic, as a definitive feature of an individual or group:

   Intricate rhyming is a distinguishing feature of her poetry.

Other Words From

• dis·tinguish·ing·ly adverb
• nondis·tinguish·ing adjective
• self-dis·tinguish·ing adjective
• undis·tinguish·ing adjective
• undis·tinguish·ing·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of distinguishing¹

First recorded in 1660–70; distinguish + -ing ²

Example Sentences

Those select few that have been approved have a hard time distinguishing between toxic metals and essential nutrients.

From Los Angeles Times

They learned that human noses are much faster than previously believed, distinguishing between different odors in an interval as short as 60 milliseconds on average.

From Salon

Gentry made clear in his statement that his decision has “absolutely nothing to do” with playing time or name, image and likeness revenue opportunities, distinguishing himself from other athletes who redshirted.

From Los Angeles Times

“Unfortunately, distinguishing between licensed and unlicensed dispensaries is now more difficult than ever,” the measure states.

From Los Angeles Times

That, some leading lawyers say, proves that Israel was using deadly force without distinguishing between combatants and civilians; a violation of the rules of war.

From BBC