recognize the difference

USAGE SUMMARY

"recognize the difference" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize the importance of being able to differentiate between two similar things. For example: "It's important to recognize the difference between a need and a want when making a financial decision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We recognize the difference".

The New York Times

People recognize the difference.

The New York Times

Can they recognize the difference they craved?

The New York Times

It's important to remember this, and to recognize the difference.

The New Yorker

Patients must be able to recognize the difference.

The New York Times

I think we have to recognize the difference and disparity that exist".

The New York Times - Sports

But first it's important to recognize the difference between white and black marks.

The New York Times

Does The Times still recognize the difference between "healthy" and "healthful"?

The New York Times

Banks are finally starting to recognize the difference between cryptocurrencies and blockchain.

Stanford University

The Spurs recognize the difference, and they are not afraid to point it out.

The New York Times - Sports

"Today women recognize the difference between the pastoral role and other ministries," Pentecost said.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "recognize the difference" to emphasize the importance of critical thinking and nuanced understanding in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "recognize the difference" when the distinction is already apparent or self-evident. This can make your writing sound condescending or redundant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "recognize the difference" functions as a directive or an observation, urging or highlighting the importance of distinguishing between two or more distinct entities or concepts. It underscores the need for discernment, as evidenced by the numerous examples found in Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

20%

Wiki

13.33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "recognize the difference" is a common and versatile expression that emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between two or more distinct entities or concepts. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. It is suitable for various contexts, including news, academic writing, and general communication. To enhance your writing, ensure that the items being compared are clearly defined and avoid using the phrase when the distinction is obvious. Remember that while alternatives like "discern the distinction" and "differentiate between" can add nuance, the core message is the ability to perceive and understand variations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

distinguish between

A common and direct way to express the ability to see differences.

differentiate between

Similar to "distinguish between" but can imply a more analytical process.

tell the difference

A more informal way to express the ability to distinguish.

discern the distinction

Emphasizes a more refined or subtle ability to perceive the difference.

be aware of the variation

Focuses on being conscious of the differences that exist.

understand the variance

Focuses on comprehending the degree of difference.

grasp the dissimilarity

Emphasizes understanding that things are not alike.

appreciate the contrast

Highlights the understanding and value of the differences.

identify the disparity

Highlights the recognition of inequality or difference.

perceive the divergence

Implies noticing a deviation or separation between things.

FAQs

How can I use "recognize the difference" in a sentence?

You can use "recognize the difference" to highlight the importance of distinguishing between two or more concepts or objects. For example: "It's crucial to "recognize the difference" between fact and opinion".

What's a more formal way to say "recognize the difference"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "discern the distinction" or "differentiate between".

Is there a simpler way to say "recognize the difference"?

Yes, a simpler alternative is "tell the difference", which is suitable for informal contexts.

What is the difference between "distinguish between" and ""recognize the difference""?

"Distinguish between" often implies a more careful and analytical process, while ""recognize the difference"" simply means to be aware that a difference exists.