The phrase "tells apart" is spelled with two distinct sounds. The first sound is the "t" sound, represented in IPA phonetics as /t/. The second sound is the "eh" sound, represented as /ɛ/. Together, they form the word "tells," which means to distinguish or differentiate. The addition of the word "apart" represents a separation or distinction and is spelled as it sounds, with the sounds "uh" represented by the symbol /ə/ and "p" represented by /p/. Together, "tells apart" means to distinguish one thing from another.
The phrase "tells apart" refers to the ability to distinguish or differentiate one thing or person from another. It implies the capacity to identify unique or distinguishing characteristics or traits that set one entity apart from another. By "telling apart," individuals are able to recognize and understand the differences between various objects, concepts, or individuals, thereby distinguishing between them.
When someone can tell things apart, they possess the skill to perceive and analyze distinctions, allowing them to determine the dissimilarities or variations between multiple items or individuals. This ability can be applied to various contexts, such as identifying separate species of plants or animals, recognizing different colors or shapes, or understanding contrasting qualities or attributes in people.
The action of "telling apart" involves careful observation, perception, and comprehension. It may require paying close attention to specific details, comparing and contrasting characteristics, or utilizing knowledge and experience. Additionally, this phrase implies making accurate judgments or conclusions based on the observed differences. Being able to tell things apart is a valuable skill in various fields, including science, art, language, and interpersonal relationships.
Overall, "telling apart" refers to the act of discerning and distinguishing entities by recognizing and comprehending the unique qualities that set them apart from others.
The phrase "tells apart" is not a word, but rather a combination of two separate words, "tells" and "apart". The etymology of these words individually can be explained as follows:
- Tells: The word "tell" originated from the Old English word "tellan", which means "to count, relate, or reckon". Over time, it developed to also mean "to disclose or communicate information". It can be traced back further to the Proto-Germanic word "taljaną", meaning "to make known".
- Apart: The word "apart" comes from the Latin word "apartus", which means "separated" or "divided". This Latin term is derived from the verb "aprire", meaning "to open".
So, the combination of these two words, "tells apart", simply means to identify or distinguish one thing or person from another.