The correct spelling for the word "tell between" is actually "tell apart." Often, people use the incorrect spelling due to a common mishearing of the phrase. The IPA phonetic transcription for "tell apart" is /tɛl əˈpɑrt/, with the emphasis on the second syllable of "apart." It is important to note that using the correct spelling of words helps to improve written communication and promotes clear understanding of language usage. So, let's tell apart what's right from wrong!
The phrase "tell between" is typically used to refer to the ability or action of distinguishing or differentiating between two or more things or individuals. It essentially means to be able to discern or recognize the differences or unique characteristics that set each one apart from the others.
When one can "tell between" two things, it implies that they possess the capacity to accurately identify, distinguish, or determine the specific attributes, qualities, or features that make each entity distinct or separate. This ability may involve recognizing contrasting physical appearances, noticing dissimilar behaviors or patterns, or perceiving contrasting characteristics or traits.
The phrase "tell between" often implies a level of proficiency, observation, or judgment necessary to correctly assess or evaluate the disparities between multiple objects, people, ideas, or concepts. It suggests the ability to discriminate or make informed decisions based on the identified differences.
For example, a skilled photographer may readily "tell between" two photographs taken by different individuals by analyzing their unique styles, composition, or use of lighting. Similarly, a discerning parent may be able to "tell between" their children's voices even when they speak over the phone due to subtle variations in tonality or enunciation.
In essence, "tell between" refers to the act of differentiating or distinguishing, highlighting someone's ability to perceive and understand the dissimilarities that exist between various things or individuals.
The phrase "tell between" does not have a specific etymology as it is a combination of two separate words: "tell" and "between".
The word "tell" comes from the Old English word "tellan", which means "to reckon" or "to count". It has evolved over time to have various meanings, including "to narrate", "to inform", or "to distinguish".
The word "between" comes from the Middle English word "betwene", which is a compound of the preposition "be" meaning "by" or "alongside" and the word "twene", meaning "two". Thus, "between" signifies the space or position that exists in the middle or in relation to two things.
When combined, "tell between" means to distinguish or differentiate between two things or choices.