Detection: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is often used in a technical or scientific context, particularly when referring to identifying the presence or existence of something that is not immediately obvious.

• The early detection of cancer significantly increases the chances of successful treatment.
• Advanced technology has improved the detection of fraudulent activities in banking.

This is frequently used in a broader sense, often relating to finding something new or previously unknown, and can be applied to various fields including science, history, and everyday life.

• The discovery of penicillin revolutionized the field of medicine.
• Their trip to the jungle led to the discovery of several new species of plants.

Exposure typically refers to the act of revealing something hidden, especially in contexts where there is an element of risk or vulnerability. It can have a negative connotation, often related to scandal or danger.

• Exposure to harmful chemicals can pose serious health risks.
• The journalist's report led to the exposure of widespread corruption within the government.

This word is used when something that was hidden or unknown is brought to light. It often suggests a deliberate effort to reveal something, sometimes involving investigation or research.

• The archaeologists' work was focused on uncovering the secrets of the ancient civilization.
• After months of investigation, the detective succeeded in uncovering the truth behind the mysterious disappearance.

Use when finding the presence of something, often through technology or keen observation. It's commonly used in scientific, medical, and security contexts.

• Early detection of diseases can save lives.
• The security system allows for the detection of intruders.

Refer to the act of verifying or establishing the identity of a person or object. Frequently used in legal, scholarly, and administrative contexts.

• Proper identification is required to enter the building.
• The scientist's identification of the new species was groundbreaking.

Apply when acknowledging the existence, validity, or legality of something; often suggests a deeper understanding or familiarity. Commonly used in psychological, social, and professional contexts.

• Facial recognition technology is advancing rapidly.
• His recognition of the issue led to a swift solution.

Use when noticing or seeing something, often quickly or casually. It's less formal and can have a broader usage, including informal and conversational contexts.

• Spotting a rare bird in the park was thrilling.
• She had a knack for spotting mistakes in documents.

Used in situations where identifying or noticing something, especially something elusive or concealed, is important. Often linked with monitoring, security, or scientific measurement.

• Early detection of cancer increases the chances of successful treatment
• The security system allows for the detection of intruders

Suits situations where something new is found or learned, generally something previously unknown or hidden. Can be used metaphorically or literally.

• The discovery of penicillin revolutionized medicine
• They made a fascinating discovery during their archaeological dig

Pertains to the act of recognizing, naming, or confirming the existence of something or someone, often used in formal, legal, or scientific contexts.

• The identification of the suspect was made possible through fingerprint analysis
• Accurate identification of plant species is crucial for botanical studies

Often used in academic, scientific, or investigatory contexts to describe the result or outcome of research, investigations, or examinations.

• The findings of the study were published in a reputable scientific journal
• After days of searching, they celebrated the finding of the lost child