discern

[dih-surn, -zurn] / dɪˈsɜrn, -ˈzɜrn /

VERB

catch sight of; recognize and understand

Synonyms

STRONGEST

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

STRONG

apprehend behold descry discover espy extricate focus judge know note notice observe read remark rubberneck secern separate severalize spot view

WEAK

difference discrepate get a load of get the picture get wise to make distinction make out pick out see the light see through take in

Antonyms

STRONGEST

confuse doubt miss mix up overlook

STRONG

forget ignore lose misunderstand neglect

WEAK

disregard

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

I had to narrow it down and discern a moment.

From Los Angeles Times • May 5, 2026

This case will hinge on whether your landlord is doing their best to repair the elevator in a timely manner, which I can’t discern from your letter.

From MarketWatch • May 5, 2026

After Lorenzo claimed to discern evidence of moral strength, determination and leadership qualities, Orson is said to have remarked that the sitter “would make a roaring abolitionist.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 29, 2026

We’re trying to teach kids how to discern what good information is, what a reliable source is.

From Salon • Apr. 26, 2026

Ignoring her question, he holds out an open notebook, and in the flickering light Isobel can discern a bare black tree.

From "The Night Circus" by Erin Morgenstern

Vocabulary lists containing discern

Things Fall Apart

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Romeo and Juliet

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Grade 10, List 5

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