"To understand the distinction" means to comprehend or recognize the difference between two or more things.
Sentences with «to understand the distinction»
It's important to understand the distinction between not believing in gods and believing there are no gods. (nakedpastor.com)
As yet the American people do not understand the distinctions, and we in this country are prone to rush, for a time, at any new thing. (scientificamerican.com)
Borrowers must understand the distinction in order to decide whether to apply for one or the other. (usstudentloancenter.org)