English Reference
verb · noun

detecting

v. · n.
US /dɪˈtɛktɪŋ/ UK /dɪtˈɛktɪŋ/ de·tect·ing

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.noticing or finding something that is not easy to see or hear.

    v.identifying the presence or existence of something that is subtle, hidden, or difficult to perceive.

    Simple

    The security system is very good at detecting movement in the dark.

    In context

    Modern sensors are capable of detecting minute changes in atmospheric pressure long before a storm actually arrives.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    n.the act of finding something, especially using a special tool or skill.

    n.the action or process of identifying something, often used as a gerund in formal or technical contexts.

    Simple

    The early detecting of the problem saved the company a lot of money.

    In context

    The rapid detecting of chemical leaks is essential for maintaining safety standards within the industrial facility.

Even modern laboratory methods have trouble reliably detecting low levels of oocysts, which can still cause disease.

The Conversation· 10 Aug 2026

The young scientist researched plastic pollution and the challenges of detecting microplastics in drinking water.

Smithsonian Magazine· 6 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated