distinguish itself from

USAGE SUMMARY

"distinguish itself from" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate that something stands out or is unique in comparison to something else. Example: The company's product line distinguishes itself from its competitors by using sustainable materials.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

JC: Must a university distinguish itself from its competition?

The Guardian

Since its inception, Oakland Ballet has sought to distinguish itself from traditional ballet troupes.

The New York Times - Arts

The project wanted to distinguish itself from George Clark's treasure dig of the eighteen-sixties.

The New Yorker

A still-new religion needed a "look" to distinguish itself from an image-intensive Christian culture.

The New York Times - Arts

The government thus far has sought to distinguish itself from its predecessor.

The Guardian

"Aside from the plastic case and colors, how will the 5C distinguish itself from the 5S?

The New York Times

But this fair has wisely taken pains to distinguish itself from its recent predecessor.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

This was how the fledgling republic distinguished itself from the cruel tyrannies of Europe.

The New York Times - Magazine

Throughout, C-SPAN distinguished itself from the other TV channels by an extraordinary serenity.

The New Yorker

It distinguished itself from its sister tabloid with its deadpan articles on the bizarre.

The New York Times

Volvo has also distinguished itself from Chinese competitors in another area: safety.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "distinguish itself from", clearly identify the specific qualities or attributes that make the subject unique. This provides context and strengthens the impact of the statement.

Common error

Avoid claiming complete uniqueness when using "distinguish itself from". Instead, focus on specific differences or advantages to maintain credibility and avoid exaggeration.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "distinguish itself from" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of making something (or someone) noticeably different or unique compared to others. It highlights the process of establishing a distinct identity. According to Ludwig, this is a correct and commonly used expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

17%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "distinguish itself from" is a widely used and grammatically sound expression for highlighting the unique attributes of a subject. Ludwig confirms that it is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English. It is most frequently found in News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedia contexts, with a neutral to professional register. Related phrases like "set itself apart from" and "differentiate itself from" offer similar meanings with slightly different nuances. When employing this phrase, ensure that the distinct qualities are clearly identified to maximize impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

set itself apart from

Emphasizes creating a unique identity, focusing on separation from others.

differentiate itself from

Highlights the process of identifying differences to stand out.

carve out a niche separate from

Focuses on creating a specialized position that is distinct.

establish its uniqueness relative to

Emphasizes creating a unique identity, focusing on separation from others.

mark itself as distinct from

Highlights the act of clearly indicating differences.

separate itself from

Focuses on the act of becoming or staying physically apart.

divorce itself from

Suggests a more forceful separation, implying disagreement or disapproval.

contrast itself with

Highlights direct comparison to emphasize differences.

affirm its individuality beyond

Emphasizes asserting a unique identity that surpasses others.

break away from

Implies a departure from established norms or associations.

FAQs

How can I use "distinguish itself from" in a sentence?

Use "distinguish itself from" to highlight unique qualities. For example: "The company's commitment to sustainability helps it "distinguish itself from" competitors."

What is a good alternative to "distinguish itself from"?

Alternatives include "set itself apart from", "differentiate itself from", or "carve out a niche separate from", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Which is more appropriate: "distinguish itself from" or "differentiate itself from"?

Both ""distinguish itself from"" and "differentiate itself from" are correct. "Distinguish" emphasizes unique qualities, while "differentiate" focuses on identifying differences.

What's the difference between "distinguish itself from" and "dissociate itself from"?

"Distinguish itself from" highlights unique qualities, while "dissociate itself from" implies a deliberate separation or disaffiliation. They aren't interchangeable; use "dissociate" when the subject is actively breaking away from something.