Discern

/dɪˈsɜrn/

Meaning & Definition

verb

to perceive or recognize something.

With experience, she was able to discern the subtle differences between the two wines.

to distinguish someone or something with difficulty by sight or with the other senses.

In the dim light, he could barely discern her figure in the distance.

to detect or identify, especially by using one's intellect or judgment.

The scientist was able to discern a pattern in the data that others had missed.

to understand or make sense of something.

It took time for him to discern the true intentions behind her actions.

Late Middle English: from Latin discernere, from dis- 'apart' + cernere 'to separate'.

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.

discerning

Having or showing good judgment.

discernible

Able to be perceived or recognized.

To figure out or see through something.

I can totally discern what you're trying to do.

To read between the lines.

She discerned the underlying tension in their conversation.