telling them apart

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "telling them apart" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the ability to distinguish between two or more similar items, people, or concepts. Example: "The twins look so much alike that I have trouble telling them apart."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

Dick Gould, their college coach for two years, had trouble telling them apart.

The New York Times - Magazine

Thankfully, the wardrobe coordination is coincidental; telling them apart is hard enough as it is.

The Guardian - Music

If there were problems telling them apart, you could give Villain a big moustache.

The Guardian - Film

You'd have a hard time telling them apart from the work of a big-footprint desktop flatbed home scanner.

The New York Times

I tried a bread pudding ($2.25) and a coconut flan ($2.50) and had trouble telling them apart.

The New York Times - Food

When it comes to recognizing friends and enemies, for example, or telling them apart, we are somewhat at a loss.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

HOW TO TELL THEM APART Jim, right, is taller and has a more pronounced jaw line.

The New York Times - Sports

How to tell them apart?

The New York Times

Viewers can even tell them apart.

Independent

He could never tell them apart.

The New Yorker

It was easy to tell them apart.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use specific examples or characteristics to illustrate how to "tell them apart", making the distinction more concrete for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using overly subjective or vague descriptors when trying to "tell them apart". Instead, opt for measurable or verifiable attributes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "telling them apart" functions as a gerundial phrase or a participle phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase is correct and usable. It describes the ability to distinguish or differentiate between two or more similar entities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "telling them apart" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe the act of distinguishing between similar entities. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is widely used across various contexts, from news and media to scientific articles, making it a versatile expression. While alternatives like "distinguishing between them" or "differentiating them" exist, "telling them apart" maintains a straightforward and accessible tone. Remember to use concrete attributes and avoid vague descriptions when employing this phrase to ensure clarity. This makes the expression valuable for precise communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

distinguishing between them

Replaces the verb "telling" with the more formal "distinguishing".

differentiating them

Uses a different verb, "differentiating", to emphasize the process of identifying differences.

telling the difference

Focuses on the act of discerning a difference, rather than separating entities.

recognizing the distinctions

Highlights the act of perceiving distinctions or differences.

identifying what sets them apart

Emphasizes the qualities or characteristics that make the entities unique.

drawing a distinction between them

Emphasizes creating a clear separation in understanding or perception.

separating them in one's mind

Focuses on the mental process of distinguishing between entities.

ascertaining their differences

Replaces "telling" with "ascertaining" to convey a formal and thorough investigation of differences.

appreciating the nuances between them

Highlights a refined understanding and awareness of subtle variations.

discerning the subtle variations

Stresses the ability to notice and understand subtle differences.

FAQs

How can I use "telling them apart" in a sentence?

You can use "telling them apart" to describe the act of distinguishing between similar items or people. For example: "The twins are so identical that "telling them apart" is nearly impossible."

What are some alternatives to "telling them apart"?

Alternatives include "distinguishing between them", "differentiating them", or "telling the difference", depending on the context.

Which is correct: "telling them apart" or "to tell them apart"?

Both are correct, but they function differently. "Telling them apart" often acts as a gerund or part of a larger phrase, while "to tell them apart" is an infinitive. The choice depends on the sentence structure.

What's the difference between ""telling them apart"" and "distinguishing them"?

While both convey the same basic meaning, "telling them apart" is more informal and conversational. "Distinguishing them" is more formal and often used in academic or technical contexts.