Meaning & Definition of word "Discern"
to
Discern
/dɪˈsɜrn/
verb:
- 1. to perceive or recognize something.
- Example: With experience, she was able to discern the subtle differences between the two wines.
- 2. to distinguish someone or something with difficulty by sight or with the other senses.
- Example: In the dim light, he could barely discern her figure in the distance.
- 3. to detect or identify, especially by using one's intellect or judgment.
- Example: The scientist was able to discern a pattern in the data that others had missed.
- 4. to understand or make sense of something.
- Example: It took time for him to discern the true intentions behind her actions.
Etymology
Late Middle English: from Latin discernere, from dis- 'apart' + cernere 'to separate'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
discern fact from fiction:
To differentiate between what is true and what is false.
discern between right and wrong:
To understand the difference between good and bad behavior.
Related Words
discerning:
Having or showing good judgment.
discernible:
Able to be perceived or recognized.
Slang Meanings of discern
Meaning: To figure out or see through something.
Example Sentence: I can totally discern what you're trying to do.
Meaning: To read between the lines.
Example Sentence: She discerned the underlying tension in their conversation.