As a Noun: 1. The way in which two thing are unlike each other. English = difference. 2. The thing that makes one thing different from another. English = distinction. 3. The process of finding a derivative in mathematics. English = differentiation. As a Verb or Adjective: 1. For one thing to be unlike another thing in some way. English = (be) different, (be) unlike; differ from. 2. In mathematics, transform a function into its derivative. English = differentiate. As Modifier: 1. Used to introduce a statement which contrasts with what you have just said. English = differently, but, yet, although.