Definition

To recognize or distinguish something as different from others.

Example

She could secern the subtle differences between the two paintings.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Do you think it's easy to secern different types of music?

I guess it depends on how much you listen to them.

True, but some people really struggle to secern the genres.

Yeah, I can see that; it takes some practice to get it right.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Secern is formed from "se-" (meaning apart) and "cernere" (meaning to separate or distinguish). The word describes the act of separating or distinguishing between different things.

Memory Tip

Think of 'se-' meaning apart and 'cernere' meaning to separate — this helps you remember that secern means to separate or distinguish.

Visually Confused Words