See: meaning, definitions and examples

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see

[siː ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

with eyes

Perceive with the eyes; discern visually. Recognize (someone or something) from previous encounters or knowledge.

Synonyms

catch sight of, notice, observe, spot.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
see	General term used when something comes into your view without any specific effort. I see a car coming down the road. Did you see that movie last night?
observe	Used when you are looking at something carefully, often for a period of time and with intent to gather information. The scientist observed the behavior of the animals. I like to observe people when I’m at the park.
notice	Used when you see something and become aware of it, often implying a certain level of attention. I noticed that you got a new haircut. Did you notice the error in the report?
spot	Used when you identify or locate something or someone quickly, often implying a sharp eye or careful searching. Can you spot the difference between these two pictures? I finally spotted my friend in the busy marketplace.
catch sight of	Used when you suddenly see something, often briefly or out of the corner of your eye. I caught sight of an old friend in the crowd. She caught sight of the sunset as she turned the corner.

Examples of usage

I can see a car coming down the road.
I saw her in the crowd.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

understand

Perceive or notice (someone or something) in a particular way. Interpret something in a specified way.

Synonyms

comprehend, grasp, realize, understand.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
see	Use when referring to the physical act of looking at something or when you want to convey understanding in a simple manner. I see the sunset from my window. I see what you mean.
understand	A general word for when you know how something works or can make sense of a situation. It is very versatile and can be used in most situations. Do you understand the instructions? I understand why you are upset.
comprehend	Use in formal or serious contexts when you want to imply a deeper or more complete understanding of something complex. It took me a while to comprehend the full impact of the new policy. Can you comprehend the essence of his argument?
realize	Best used when someone comes to an understanding or awareness often suddenly or unexpectedly. I didn't realize the time; I'm late for the meeting. She realized she had left her keys at home.
grasp	Utilize when referring to understanding something difficult or complex, often implying a degree of effort. She finally grasped the concept after several attempts. I can't seem to grasp how this machine works.

Examples of usage

I see what you mean.
She saw the situation differently.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

meeting

A meeting with a doctor or other professional in order to seek advice or treatment.

Synonyms

appointment, consultation, visit.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
see	Same as the first 'see', typically used for visiting or meeting someone in a less formal way. I will see you at the coffee shop later She went to see her friend last night
appointment	Use in professional or formal settings to describe a scheduled meeting, often with a specific time. I have an appointment with my dentist at 3 PM He scheduled an appointment with the financial advisor
consultation	Use when referring to an in-depth or specialized discussion, often of a medical or expert nature. She had a consultation with a legal expert The doctor recommended a consultation with a specialist
visit	Use when you go to a place or meet someone, typically involving a longer stay or a specific purpose. We plan to visit the museum this weekend She visited her grandparents during the holidays

Examples of usage

I have a dentist's appointment on Thursday.
She went to see her lawyer.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'see' comes from the Old English word 'seon', meaning 'to perceive' or 'to look at'.
In many languages, the word for 'see' shares a common root, showing how essential this action is across cultures.

Science

The human eye can detect about 10 million different colors, allowing for a rich visual experience.
Eyes rely on light to see; without light, our vision is not possible, shaping how we interact with the world.

Psychology

Seeing is not just about perception; it also involves interpretation made by our brain, impacting how we react to what we observe.
Vision plays a key role in memory; we often remember things better when we see them rather than just hearing about them.

Literature

In literature, seeing often symbolizes understanding and insight, as in the phrase 'seeing the truth'.
Classic works often use visual descriptions to engage readers, making them feel a part of the story.

Art

Artists use the concept of sight not only to depict what they see but also to reinterpret reality, shaping viewer perception.
In visual arts, the act of seeing is fundamental; it can evoke emotions and thoughts that transcend the ordinary.

Translations

Translations of the word "see" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ver

🇮🇳 देखना

🇩🇪 sehen

🇮🇩 melihat

🇺🇦 бачити

🇵🇱 widzieć

🇯🇵 見る

🇫🇷 voir

🇪🇸 ver

🇹🇷 görmek

🇰🇷 보다

🇸🇦 رؤية

🇨🇿 vidět

🇸🇰 vidieť

🇨🇳 看见

🇸🇮 videti

🇮🇸 sjá

🇰🇿 көру

🇬🇪 ნახვა

🇦🇿 görmək

🇲🇽 ver

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #71, this word is extremely common in English. It's a crucial part of basic vocabulary that's used constantly in both spoken and written communication, making it essential for even basic conversations.

...
68 well
69 year
70 like
71 see
72 many
73 before
74 now
...