distinguish
verb (used with object)
to mark off as different (often followed by from orby ).
had distinguished
-
past perfectof distinguish.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
But he had distinguished himself for bravery, and his devotion to the cause never wavered.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 4, 2026
Born and raised in Philadelphia, Mr. Lyons had distinguished himself as a driven young reporter determined to succeed in television news, colleagues said.
From New York Times ● Feb. 23, 2023
That person would have been furnished with a staff and budget, Lang said, diverting resources and attention from people at Penn State “who already had distinguished themselves through anti-racist scholarship, teaching, service, or advocacy.”
From Washington Post ● Jan. 5, 2023
God, in his wisdom, had distinguished each of them with unique qualities and abilities with which to overcome challenges most people could not fathom.
From Seattle Times ● Jun. 3, 2022
The club had distinguished itself by competing every year in the Metropolitan Chess League, often defeating dozens of clubs throughout the New York area.
From "Endgame" by Frank Brady
