English Reference
verb · adjective

perceived

v. · adj.
US /pɝˈsivd/ UK /pəsˈiːvd/ per·ceived

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.to notice or become aware of something using your eyes, ears, or other senses.

    v.to become aware of something through the senses, particularly sight or hearing. Transitive; requires a direct object.

    Simple

    The cat perceived a tiny movement in the grass and stayed very still.

    In context

    The researchers noted that the subjects perceived the subtle change in frequency long before the visual indicators appeared on the screen.

    Usage

    Often used in formal or scientific contexts to describe sensory input.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.to think of someone or something in a particular way.

    v.to interpret or regard someone or something in a specific manner. Often used with 'as'.

    Simple

    Many people perceived the new law as a way to save money.

    In context

    The public perceived the CEO's silence as an admission of guilt, despite the legal team's insistence that it was a standard procedural delay.

    Usage

    Commonly follows the pattern 'perceive something as [adjective/noun]'.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate Academic

    adj.something that people believe is true, even if it might not be.

    adj.regarded or understood in a particular way, often in contrast to an objective reality.

    Simple

    The perceived risk of the surgery was much higher than the actual danger.

    In context

    The gap between the perceived quality of the product and its actual performance led to a significant decline in customer loyalty.

    Usage

    Usually appears before the noun it modifies.

As a Japanese scholar of Islam , I have studied how Muslims perceived Japan during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

The Conversation· 11 Aug 2026

For a number of years, people around Britain have spoken of what they perceived to be "dodgy shops" on their High Street.

BBC News· 7 Jun 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated