How to Tell the Difference Between Twins

Bulruuk

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posted on 11 years ago — updated on 1 second ago

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At first glance, it may seem like identical twins look, well, “identical,” and that there is no way to tell them apart. And that can be frustrating, for them and for you, if you keep referring to one of them by the wrong name. Or, you start back into a conversation you had last week, only to learn you are talking to the other sibling. But you’ll be happy to know that even identical twins have distinct differences between them.

Steps

Looking at Physical Characteristics

Observe their facial features. Twins often have different shaped eyes, jawlines, cheekbones, lips and other facial features, including moles or birthmarks on the opposite sides of their bodies that can help you tell them apart. You might also notice that one has a darker skin tone or complexion.

Look closely at how their height differs. You may discover that one twin is taller than the other, or tends to stand up a little straighter than his or her sibling.

Notice if the twins have different hair styles. One may have curly hair while the other’s is straight. They may also prefer wearing their hair short or long, or like it better when it is pulled back or up from their face as opposed to letting it fall naturally.

Observing Personality Traits

Be aware of their different personality traits. For example, one twin may be very outgoing and social, while the other is shy and tends to hang back when in a group. They may also identify themselves differently. Some twins love being noticed as twins, while others are very vocal about being treated as an individual. Taking note of these things will help you to remember who is who.

Listen closely to their voices when they talk. One twin may have a higher or louder pitched voice, while the other may speak in a lower or softer tone. Differences in vocabulary might include one of them using more common slang words or phrases than his or her sibling.

Notice their individual expressions and personal sense of style. Clues to help you tell twins apart may include moving their head in a certain way, raising their eyebrows, and the like. Noticing if they tend to favor certain colors, follow the latest fashion trends, or prefer a distinctive type of jewelry are other ways to tell them apart.

Watching their Behavior

Watch for distinguishing hand gestures. In most sets of twins, one is right-handed and the other left-handed. So, look and see which hand they use when eating, drinking, or pointing. You might also notice that one uses their hands a lot when they speak, while the other keeps them at their side.

Notice if they have different interests. Although many twins are very close and do a lot of things together, you may discover that one really enjoys athletic activities, while the other gravitates more towards intellectual pursuits.

Check out how each twin walks. Is it fast or slow? Do they take big steps or walk with short strides? These differences may also be more apparent when they are together.

Listen to their communication style. One twin may be very heart-centered or compassionate about certain issues and want to engage in a lengthy conversation with others, while their sibling seems to be more analytical and matter-of-fact and want to get straight to the point.