Discern Meaning and Definition
Discern
Pronunciation
/ˈdɪsərn/
Part of Speech
Verb
Definition
To perceive or notice something clearly; to distinguish or tell apart something from others, often through careful consideration or observation.
Examples
1. “She discerned the subtle difference in the two melodies.”
2. “He spent hours studying the ancient text to discern the hidden meaning.”
Synonyms
1. Perceive
2. Notice
3. Recognize
Antonyms
1. Misinterpret
2. Overlook
3. Ignore
Additional Information
Discernment is an essential skill in various aspects of life, including decision-making, problem-solving, and critical thinking. It involves paying attention to details, being aware of one’s surroundings, and considering multiple perspectives to make informed choices.
Developing discernment requires practice, patience, and a willingness to learn from experiences. It is an ongoing process that involves cultivating self-awareness, curiosity, and a desire for knowledge.
Discernment is also an important characteristic in personal and professional relationships, as it allows individuals to navigate complex situations, build trust, and establish meaningful connections with others.
Moreover, discernment is essential in spiritual and philosophical contexts, where it helps individuals to distinguish between truth and falsehood, and to make choices that align with their values and principles.
The concept of discernment has been explored in various cultures and societies throughout history, with different cultures emphasizing its importance in different areas of life.
Etymology
Discern comes from the Latin word “discernere,” which means “to separate” or “to distinguish.” The word has been used in the English language since the 14th century, with its meaning evolving over time to encompass a broader range of meanings related to perception and understanding.
Usage Notes
Discern is often used in formal or academic contexts, and it is commonly used in fields such as philosophy, psychology, and literature. In informal conversations, it may be used to describe the process of making sense of a complex situation or to express a sense of insight or understanding.
The word can be used in various tenses, including present, past, and past perfect. For example: “I discern the difference between right and wrong” (present), “She discerned the hidden meaning in the poem” (past), or “By the time I arrived, he had already discerned the truth” (past perfect).
Cultural References
Discern has been referenced in various cultural works, including literature, music, and art. For example, the concept of discernment is explored in the novels of Jane Austen and the poetry of William Wordsworth.
In music, the word has been used in song titles and lyrics by artists such as Bob Dylan and Joni Mitchell.
In art, the concept of discernment is depicted in various paintings and sculptures, including works by artists such as Caravaggio and René Magritte.
Idiomatic Expressions
Discern is commonly used in idiomatic expressions, such as:
- “To discern the difference between” (to notice or perceive a distinction)
- “To discern the truth” (to understand or recognize the reality of a situation)
- “To discern one’s own interests” (to recognize or understand one’s own desires or needs)
Collocations
Discern is often used in collocations with words such as:
- “clearly”
- “obviously”
- “evidently”
- “distinctly”
Frequency of Use
Discern is a relatively formal word and is not commonly used in everyday conversation. However, it is widely used in academic and professional settings, particularly in fields related to philosophy, psychology, and literature.
Common Misspellings
The most common misspellings of discern include: