discern
Translation
to perceive, to recognize, to distinguish
Examples
I could just discern a figure in the distance.
I could just discern a figure in the distance.
It is difficult to discern the truth.
It is difficult to discern the truth.
He could not discern any difference between the two.
He could not discern any difference between the two.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) to perceive or recognize (sth.) I could just discern a figure in the distance.
Similar Words
Synonyms: perceive, distinguish, recognize; Antonyms: overlook, ignore
Etymology
From Latin 'dis-' (apart) + 'cernere' (to sift). It means to mentally sift things apart.
Memory Tips
Think of 'dis-cern' as 'to separate and concern yourself with' the details to understand them.