To recognize or identify as different or distinct. She can distinguish between the two types of wine by their aroma.
To perceive a difference in; to differentiate. He could distinguish the sound of a violin from that of a viola.
To make oneself prominent or eminent. He distinguished himself in the field of medicine with his groundbreaking research.
To be a characteristic that makes someone or something different; to set apart. A keen sense of humor distinguishes her from her peers.