Intuited: meaning, definitions and examples
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intuited
[ ɪnˈtjuːɪtɪd ]
understanding something
To intuit means to understand or know something instinctively, without the need for conscious reasoning. It involves a deep-seated sense or perception that arises from one’s inner feelings rather than through analytical thought.
Synonyms
comprehend, detect, grasp, perceive, sense
Examples of usage
- She intuitively knew that he was lying.
- He intuited the answers before they were explained.
- They intuit the emotional needs of others.
- The artist can often intuit the mood of the audience.
Etymology
The word 'intuit' comes from the Latin 'intueri', which means 'to look at, to consider'. It is composed of the prefix 'in-' meaning 'upon' and 'tuere' meaning 'to look at'. The term evolved in the English language through the Middle French 'intuiter'. The concept of intuition implies the ability to acquire knowledge without inference or evidence; essentially, it's a form of immediate understanding or insight. This idea has deep philosophical roots, often associated with thinkers like Plato and Descartes, who considered intuition as a way to grasp truths that go beyond empirical observation. The verb 'intuit' surfaced in English in the 19th century, highlighting its acceptance in discussions about cognition and human perception.