Conscious: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone is fully alert, not asleep or in a coma. It can also mean being aware of certain facts or feelings.

• She was conscious after the surgery.
• He is very conscious of his social status.

Indicates having knowledge or perception of a situation or fact.

• She wasn't aware of the changes in the schedule.
• He became aware of someone following him.

Refers simply to not being asleep. Can be used in both literal and figurative sense.

• I stayed awake all night studying.
• She was awake to the dangers of the journey.

Typically refers to someone who makes decisions based on logic and reason. It often implies practicality and good judgment.

• It is sensible to carry an umbrella when the forecast predicts rain.
• She was always very sensible with her money.

Refers to someone being aware of and able to think and notice things. Used when someone is aware, awake, or considering something carefully.

• She was conscious of the fact that everyone was watching her.
• He was still conscious after the accident.

Refers to something done on purpose, with a clear aim or goal in mind. Often used when discussing actions with a specific intent.

• Her actions were intentional, not accidental.
• He made an intentional effort to improve his grades.

Implies something done with careful thought or intention. Often used to describe actions that are done slowly and with purpose.

• His movements were slow and deliberate.
• The committee made a deliberate decision to review the policy.

Informal way to say that something was done intentionally. Typically used in everyday conversation.

• Did you break this on purpose?
• I spilled the water on purpose to get her attention.

Used when referring to the state of being aware of and able to think about one's surroundings, wakefulness, and the ability to respond to stimuli.

• She was conscious after the accident, but seemed very confused.
• I'm conscious of the fact that he may feel hurt by my comments.

Used in situations involving knowledge, understanding, or realization of the existence of something. Often used in contexts such as social issues, personal growth, or mindfulness.

• Awareness of climate change issues is growing among young people.
• She raised awareness about mental health during her speech.

Used to describe the way someone interprets or understands something, often influenced by their experiences or beliefs. Can also refer to sensory experiences.

• His perception of the event was very different from mine.
• The artist played with light and shadow to change the viewer's perception.

Used in scientific, psychological, or educational contexts to describe mental processes like thinking, remembering, learning, and understanding.

• Studies on cognition help us understand how the brain processes information.
• Her research focuses on the cognitive development of children.