Noticing: meaning, definitions and examples

Used for becoming aware of something or someone because it catches your attention.

• I couldn't help noticing the beautiful flowers in your garden.
• Did you notice how happy she looked today?

Used in more formal or scientific contexts to mean watching something carefully, usually over a period of time.

• We need to observe the behavior of the animals in their natural habitat.
• She observed the class for a week before starting her research.

Refers to becoming aware or understanding something through the senses or mind.

• He perceived a change in her attitude.
• The way we perceive the world affects our emotions.

Often used in scientific, technical, or investigative contexts to mean discovering something that is not immediately obvious.

• The scientists were able to detect traces of water on the planet.
• He managed to detect the source of the leak in the pipe.

When you become aware of something that has changed or is different, typically in an everyday setting.

• She kept noticing the little details in the painting.
• I started noticing he was acting differently.

When you carefully watch or study someone or something, often in a scientific or formal context.

• The observation of the stars requires a powerful telescope.
• His observation of her behavior led to important conclusions.

When you become aware of something through your senses or as an insight into something, typically more abstract or related to understanding.

• Her perception of the situation was different from mine.
• The artist's perception of the world was reflected in his paintings.

When you identify or discover something, often something that is not immediately obvious or is hidden, typically in a technical or scientific context.

• The detection of the virus was successful using the new equipment.
• Early detection of the disease can save lives.