We can distinguish between an alcohol and a carboxylic acid on the basis of their reaction with carbonates and hydrogen carbonates. Acid reacts with carbonate and hydrogen carbonate to evolve $CO_2$ gas that turns lime water milky.

Metal Carbonate $/$ Metal Hydrogencarbonate $+$ Carboxylic acid

                         $\downarrow$

Salt $+$ Water $+$ Carbon dioxide

Alcohols, on the other hand, do not react with carbonates and hydrogen carbonates.