perceive

verb
UK: /pəˈsiːv/
US: /pərˈsiːv/

  1. To become aware of something through the senses.

    1. I perceive a strange smell in the air now.
    2. Detectives perceive subtle clues that ordinary people might easily miss.

  2. To understand or think of someone or something in a particular way.

    1. She is perceived as a kind and helpful neighbor.
    2. Many perceive the new regulations as a threat to their business interests.

Synonyms

notice observe recognize understand sense detect discern comprehend
perceive adjective

  1. Recognized or understood through the senses or the mind.

    1. The perceived threat level is now very high.
    2. There is a perceived need for improved healthcare access in rural areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "perceive" in English means: To become aware of something through the senses., To understand or think of someone or something in a particular way..

The phonetic transcription of "perceive" is /pəˈsiːv/ in British English and /pərˈsiːv/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "perceive": notice, observe, recognize, understand, sense, detect, discern, comprehend.

Example usage of "perceive": "I perceive a strange smell in the air now.". More examples on the page.