Detect: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when something not easily noticeable is discovered, often with the help of tools or close observation.

• The doctor was able to detect the disease early
• They used special equipment to detect the signals

Appropriate when recognizing or confirming the identity of something or someone, often requiring prior knowledge or evidence.

• She was able to identify the culprit with the help of the witness
• The scientists identified the new species of butterfly

Applicable in situations where one is able to distinguish or recognize differences between things, often using one's judgment or insight.

• She could discern a slight accent in his speech
• It was hard to discern the true intentions behind his words

Informal and often used when something or someone is seen or noticed, especially when it happens quickly or unexpectedly.

• I managed to spot my friend in the crowd
• Can you spot the difference between these two pictures?

Used in casual or everyday situations where one becomes aware of something, often suddenly or unexpectedly.

• Did you notice the new painting on the wall? He noticed a change in her behavior

Used when identifying something, often invisible or hard to notice, like signals, errors, or diseases.

• The doctor was able to detect the early signs of the disease.
• Scientists detected a signal from outer space.

Used in a broad sense for locating, obtaining, or coming upon something, usually with some effort.

• I can't find my keys anywhere.
• He found a new way to solve the problem.

Used when finding something new, significant, or previously unknown, often by chance or through exploration.

• Christopher Columbus is often said to have discovered America.
• She discovered a hidden talent for painting.

Used when revealing something hidden, secret, or unknown, often implying careful investigation or discovery over time.

• The journalist uncovered a major political scandal.
• Archaeologists uncovered ancient ruins.

Used when determining the exact position or place of something.

• The GPS helped us locate the nearest gas station.
• They managed to locate the missing hiker.

Use when talking about discovering or identifying something that is not easily visible or obvious. Often used in technical, scientific, or security contexts.

• The device can detect tiny amounts of gas in the air.
• The scientist's method can detect the presence of bacteria in water samples.

Use when referring to a device that detects and responds to changes in an environment, such as temperature, light, or motion. Frequently used in technology and automation.

• The car has a sensor that helps with parking.
• Motion sensors turned the lights on as we walked down the hallway.

Use when referring to a device that examines or reads something, often converting it into a digital format. Common in medical, security, and document management contexts.

• The airport uses a scanner to check luggage for prohibited items.
• A scanner was used to digitize the old photos.

Use when referring to something that points to or signals a state or level of something. Often used in measuring, monitoring, or showing progress.

• The stock market is a good indicator of economic health.
• The indicator light shows that the machine is on.

Use when referring to a warning signal or a feeling of fear and alertness about possible danger. Can be both physical devices or emotional reactions.

• The loud noise set off the fire alarm.
• His strange behavior raised alarm among his friends.