Distinguish
Definition 1 of 4
Pro Tip 1/3
Not Always Visual
Distinguishing can involve senses other than sight, like taste or hearing. He could distinguish the song by its unique guitar riff.
Pro Tip 2/3
Subtle Differences
Sometimes the differences you distinguish are not obvious, but very slight. An expert could distinguish the painting as a forgery by the brushstrokes.
Pro Tip 3/3
Context Clues
Context, like specific details or background info, helps to distinguish meaning. With the context of the story, she could distinguish the author's intent.