discern

[ dih-surn, -zurn ]

verb (used with object)

1. to perceive by the sight or some other sense or by the intellect; see, recognize, or apprehend:

   They discerned a sail on the horizon.

   Synonyms: espy, descry, discover

2. to distinguish mentally; recognize as distinct or different; discriminate:

   He is incapable of discerning right from wrong.

   Synonyms: judge, differentiate

verb (used without object)

1. to distinguish or discriminate.

   Synonyms: judge, differentiate

discern

/ dɪˈsɜːn /

verb

1. tr to recognize or perceive clearly
2. to recognize or perceive (differences)

Derived Forms

• disˈcerner, noun

Other Words From

• dis·cern·er noun
• pre·dis·cern verb (used with object)
• un·dis·cerned adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of discern¹

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English, from Old French, from Latin discernere “to separate,” from dis- dis- ¹ + cernere “to decide, separate, sift”

Word History and Origins

Origin of discern¹

C14: from Old French discerner, from Latin discernere to divide, from dis- ¹(apart) + cernere to separate

Synonym Study

See notice.

Example Sentences

It represents a failure of much of the education system to help students discern the difference between news and propaganda.

From Salon

“It’s the musical sharing and a genuine interest in them that matters. You just recognize each one as an individual and respect each child. They can discern very early in life whether you are for real.”

From Los Angeles Times

Once they made it through the doors, elated shoppers grabbed blind boxes and vigorously shook them to try to discern what was inside.

From Los Angeles Times

The new analysis highlights how scientists can now discern the fingerprint of climate change in complex weather events.

From BBC

Polling so far indicates that the presidential race will be very tight, and if you’re looking to get election information with more depth, there’s lots of programming that can help you discern the facts, or at least help you debate the moment we’re in.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• anticipate
• ascertain
• detect
• determine
• differentiate
• discriminate
• distinguish
• divine
• figure out
• find out
• foresee
• perceive