Diagnose: meaning, definitions and examples

Used primarily in medical settings to identify diseases or medical conditions.

• The doctor will diagnose the patient with pneumonia after conducting several tests.
• It took weeks to diagnose the rare condition accurately.

Used when recognizing or establishing the identity of someone or something, often used in a broader set of contexts compared to 'diagnose'.

• Police were able to identify the suspect from the surveillance footage.
• Scientists need to identify new species based on their unique characteristics.

Used when figuring out or establishing facts or information through analysis or research.

• The laboratory tests will determine the chemical composition of the sample.
• It's important to determine the cause of the error before proceeding.

Used to indicate the discovery of something that may not be immediately obvious, often through investigation or use of technology.

• The security system can detect any intruders entering the premises.
• Early screening can help detect cancer in its initial stages.

Used in medical or technical contexts to identify a disease or problem after careful analysis.

• The doctor was able to diagnose the patient's illness with a blood test.
• Technicians worked tirelessly to diagnose the issue with the server.

Often used to identify someone or something from previous knowledge or experience.

• I couldn't recognize him because of his new hairstyle.
• She is able to recognize most of the birds in this region by their calls.

Used to describe the ability to see or understand something that is not immediately obvious, often requiring keen insight.

• She could barely discern the outline of the building through the fog.
• It's important to discern the underlying motives behind his actions.

Typically used to notice or identify something or someone quickly, often in a casual or informal setting.

• Can you spot the difference between these two pictures?
• She was able to spot her friend in the crowd immediately.