Perceive

To become aware of something through the senses; to understand or interpret something in a particular way; or to come to realize or understand something. This process involves taking in sensory information (sight, sound, touch, taste, smell) and processing it to create a meaningful understanding of the world around us. It can also extend to abstract concepts, emotions, and ideas. Perception isn't always passive; it involves active interpretation based on prior knowledge, experience, and expectations, influencing how we experience and react to stimuli. Moreover, one's capacity to perceive can fluctuate based on various factors, including attention levels and the presence of sensory impairments.

Perceive meaning with examples

• The detective's keen observation skills allowed him to perceive the subtle clues that others missed, ultimately solving the complex mystery. He meticulously scrutinized the crime scene, focusing on every detail to understand the events that had occurred. These small insights were crucial.
• As the artist gazed at the landscape, they began to perceive the play of light and shadow, leading them to make a series of paintings. Through careful study, they could see the changing hues of color across the canvas. This awareness allowed them to capture the beauty of the natural world.
• Children often struggle to perceive sarcasm, taking literal meaning from the words of other speakers. Without understanding the underlying context of their words, they may struggle to interpret the meaning of the message that is being delivered to them.
• After years of therapy, she began to perceive her own self-worth, overcoming the negative self-talk that had plagued her for years. She began to realize how those previous feelings did not reflect her value. This process helped restore her.