Basic Details
Word: Differentiate
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To recognise or determine what makes something different from another.
Synonyms: Distinguish, Differ, Discern
Antonyms: Confuse, Merge, Equalise
Idioms and Phrases
- Different strokes for different folks: This means that different people have different preferences. Example: "Some people love spicy food, while others prefer it mild; it's just different strokes for different folks."
- To differentiate between: This means to be able to tell the difference between two or more things. Example: "It's important to differentiate between the different types of apples to choose the best one."
Usage Examples
Example 1: Teachers help students differentiate between fact and opinion during lessons.
Example 2: The ability to differentiate colours is essential for many artists.
Example 3: It can be challenging to differentiate between identical twins without asking them questions.
Fun Fact
The word "differentiate" comes from the Latin word "differentia," which means "difference." It has been used in English since the early 19th century to describe the act of distinguishing one thing from another.
Famous Quote
"Let us differentiate ourselves from others by striving to create rather than to consume." - Anonymous
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "differentiate" mean?
a) To make something the same
b) To recognise differences
c) To combine things
d) To repeat actions
Answer: b) To recognise differences
2. Which of these is a synonym of "differentiate"?
a) Merge
b) Distinguish
c) Confuse
d) Equalise
Answer: b) Distinguish
3. Which word is an antonym of "differentiate"?
a) Discern
b) Distinguish
c) Merge
d) Differentiate
Answer: c) Merge
4. Which sentence uses "differentiate" correctly?
a) The teacher asked the students to differentiate between the two stories.
b) The puppy tried to differentiate by barking loudly.
c) He wants to differentiate with flowers.
d) The machine can differentiate colours by spinning.
Answer: a) The teacher asked the students to differentiate between the two stories.
5. What does "different strokes for different folks" mean?
a) Everyone likes the same things.
b) Different people have different preferences.
c) Everyone is the same.
d) Only one way works.
Answer: b) Different people have different preferences.
