Differentiate

Definition

Differentiate refers to the act of recognizing or identifying differences between two or more things. It can also mean to make something distinct or unique, or, in mathematics, to find the derivative of a function.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌdɪfəˈrɛnʃiˌeɪt/
• Respelling: dif-uh-REN-shee-ayt

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌdɪfəˈrɛnʃiˌeɪt/
• Respelling: dif-uh-REN-shee-ayt

The pronunciation of "differentiate" is the same in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "differentiate" comes from the Medieval Latin word "differentiare," derived from "differentia," meaning "difference." It has been used in English since the early 19th century to refer to the act of distinguishing between things or making distinctions.

Derivatives

• Differentiation (noun)
• Differentiable (adjective)
• Undifferentiated (adjective)
• Differentiator (noun)
• Redifferentiate (verb)

Synonyms

• Distinguish
• Discriminate
• Separate

Antonyms

• Combine
• Confuse
• Unify

Usage

The word "differentiate" is commonly used in various fields, including business, education, science, and mathematics. It refers to the act of distinguishing between two or more items, ideas, or individuals based on specific characteristics. In mathematics, it specifically refers to finding the derivative of a function.

Related Terms

• Distinction: A noticeable difference between things.
• Derivative: In mathematics, a function that represents the rate of change of another function.
• Segmentation: The act of dividing something into different parts or sections.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To recognize or identify differences between two or more things: Refers to the ability to distinguish one thing from another.
  • Example: "It’s important to differentiate between fact and opinion."
• To make something distinct or unique: Refers to the process of giving something distinctive qualities.
  • Example: "The company sought to differentiate its product from the competition."
• In mathematics, to find the derivative of a function: Refers to the process of calculating the rate of change of a function.
  • Example: "You need to differentiate the function to find its slope."