# perceive

/pɝˈsiv/ (US) · /pəsˈiːv/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/perceive
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. to notice with senses

verb · CEFR B2 · Academic

to notice or see something, especially when it is not very obvious.

For teachers: to become aware of something through the physical senses, particularly sight or hearing.

- I could perceive a faint smell of smoke coming from the kitchen.
- The researchers were able to perceive subtle changes in the patient's heart rate that had gone unnoticed by the previous team.

Usage: Often used with 'can' or 'could' to describe sensory detection.

### 2. to interpret or view

verb · CEFR B2 · Academic

to think of something or someone in a certain way.

For teachers: to regard, interpret, or understand something in a particular manner.

- Many people perceive the new law as a threat to their privacy.
- The public tends to perceive the CEO as a visionary leader, despite the company's recent financial struggles.

Usage: Commonly used in the pattern 'perceive something as something'.

## Examples

- I perceive a slight change in your attitude today.
- Many people perceive the new law as a threat to their personal privacy.
- Although the differences were subtle, the experienced detective could perceive a slight hesitation in the witness's voice during the cross-examination.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.