be able to differentiate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be able to differentiate" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase can be used when discussing the ability to draw distinctions between two similar things or concepts. For example, "He needs to be able to differentiate between the effects of good and bad nutrition."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"There's a fairly good probability that they'll be able to differentiate between the two," he said.

The New York Times - Science

Instruments will be able to differentiate between clouds and snow cover, a problem for satellites looking down at white expanses.

The New York Times

It is important to be able to differentiate between the global perspective and what is required at a country level.

The Guardian

Surely only the most educated palette would be able to differentiate between colonial and post-Independence street food?

Independent

Local newspapers reported that the rules of German criminal procedure did not allow the most advanced DNA tests, which might be able to differentiate between identical twins.

The New York Times

If it does emerge that this incident was a result of his depression then we need to be able to differentiate between types of depression.

The Guardian - Opinion

"MVPDs and competitors should be able to differentiate themselves and compete based on the experience they offer users, including the quality of the user interface".

The Guardian

Dr. Sicherer said the issue became less clear in settings like restaurants, where a waiter might not be able to differentiate between choking, a heart attack or anaphylaxis.

The New York Times

Policemen or other students with guns might not be able to differentiate among gunmen, putting the person defending herself at risk of being shot by mistake.

The New York Times

The implication that Americans might not be able to differentiate between one murderous lunatic and an entire religion is, I think, slightly unfair.

The Economist

ENGAGE Students must be able to differentiate between 'energy'sensationion' and 'temperature'temperature

Asia-Pacific Science Education

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be able to differentiate", ensure you clearly state what needs to be differentiated and the basis for differentiation. For example, "Researchers must be able to differentiate between correlation and causation."

Common error

Avoid vague statements about being able to differentiate without specifying the relevant criteria. Instead of saying "Analysts should be able to differentiate", specify "Analysts should be able to differentiate credible sources from unreliable ones based on established journalistic standards".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be able to differentiate" functions as an infinitive phrase expressing the ability or capacity to distinguish between two or more things. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

48%

News & Media

43%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be able to differentiate" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase for expressing the capacity to distinguish between items. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is commonly found in scientific and news contexts. When using "be able to differentiate", ensure to clearly define what distinctions need to be made and the criteria for doing so. Related phrases include "be capable of distinguishing" or "have the ability to distinguish". By following these guidelines, you can effectively communicate the need for clear discernment in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be capable of distinguishing

Emphasizes the inherent capability to discern differences.

have the ability to distinguish

Highlights the possession of a specific skill for differentiation.

be in a position to discern

Focuses on the favorable circumstances allowing for clear distinction.

be competent to recognize differences

Highlights the competence and expertise to identify distinctions.

be equipped to discriminate

Suggests having the necessary tools or knowledge to differentiate effectively.

know how to tell apart

Indicates practical knowledge in distinguishing between items.

possess the faculty to perceive distinctions

Emphasizes an innate or developed ability to notice subtle differences.

be apt to discriminate between

Implies a natural inclination or tendency to differentiate.

be suited to differentiate

Highlights the suitability for performing the task of differentiating.

have what it takes to discern

Informal way to express possessing the necessary qualities for discernment.

FAQs

How can I use "be able to differentiate" in a sentence?

You can use "be able to differentiate" to indicate the capacity to distinguish between two or more things. For example, "The software must "be able to differentiate" between different file types".

What is a synonym for "be able to differentiate"?

Synonyms for "be able to differentiate" include "be capable of distinguishing", "have the ability to distinguish", or "be in a position to discern".

Is it correct to say "be able to differentiate between"?

Yes, it is correct to say "be able to differentiate between". The word "between" is often used to clarify that you are distinguishing between two or more items. For example, "The test should "be able to differentiate" between types of infections".

What's the difference between "be able to differentiate" and "be able to distinguish"?

The phrases "be able to differentiate" and "be able to distinguish" are largely interchangeable. Both indicate the capacity to recognize differences. However, "differentiate" might suggest a more detailed or analytical comparison, while "distinguish" can imply a more immediate or obvious recognition of differences.