does not distinguish

USAGE SUMMARY

'does not distinguish' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you want to show that something does not make a distinction between two or more people, things, or ideas. For example, "This book does not distinguish between justified and unjustified violence."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Nagpra does not distinguish between ancient and modern remains.

The New York Times - Magazine

But again, science does not distinguish between wants and needs.

The Guardian - Opinion

The First Amendment does not distinguish between academics and "outsiders".

The New Yorker

It does not distinguish among airlines in those countries.

The New York Times

Architectural bravura alone does not distinguish the space, however.

The New York Times

(The program does not distinguish the identities of the performers).

The New York Times

But "Red Atom" does not distinguish among causes.

The New York Times - Books

The rule does not distinguish between professional and amateur players.

The New York Times - Sports

Daily dress normally does not distinguish one group from another.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Dr Lin, however, does not distinguish between feasibility and opportunity.

The Economist

The show does not distinguish between the two in either the labeling or the arrangement.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "does not distinguish", ensure the context clearly defines what items or concepts are being treated as equivalent. Ambiguity can weaken the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "does not distinguish" in overly informal settings where simpler phrases like "doesn't tell the difference" or "treats the same" would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "does not distinguish" primarily functions as a verbal phrase used to indicate a lack of differentiation between two or more entities. It explicitly states that no separation, categorization, or difference is being made, similar to the examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "does not distinguish" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that indicates a lack of differentiation between two or more entities. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage across various contexts, particularly in news, scientific, and encyclopedic writing. When using this phrase, it's important to ensure clarity and avoid overuse in informal settings. Alternatives like "makes no distinction" or "does not differentiate" can be used to add variety to your writing, depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

does not differentiate

Focuses on the lack of a perceived difference between two or more things.

makes no distinction

Highlights the absence of a specific division or categorization.

does not discriminate

Emphasizes impartiality and equal treatment, especially in formal contexts.

treats equally

Simple way to communicate fairness in handling different cases.

does not separate

Indicates that two or more items are considered a single unit.

does not isolate

Emphasizes a lack of segregation or setting apart.

fails to differentiate

Highlights an inability or failure to perceive differences.

blurs the lines between

Focuses on making boundaries less clear

equates

Expresses an attitude of ignoring the variety of features by simplifying the comparison

lumps together

Suggests that the items are handled as if they were identical.

FAQs

How can I use "does not distinguish" in a sentence?

You can use "does not distinguish" to indicate that something treats different items or concepts as equivalent. For example, "The law "does not distinguish" between first-time and repeat offenders in this case."

What's the difference between "does not distinguish" and "does not differentiate"?

While both phrases express a lack of differentiation, "does not distinguish" often implies a deliberate choice not to make a distinction, whereas "does not differentiate" can also suggest an inability to perceive a difference.

What can I say instead of "does not distinguish"?

You can use alternatives like "makes no distinction", "does not discriminate", or "treats equally" depending on the context.

Is it better to use ""does not distinguish"" or "doesn't distinguish"?

"Does not distinguish" is more formal and suitable for academic or professional writing, while "doesn't distinguish" is appropriate for informal contexts.