What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
descrying
Example
From the top of the hill, we could descry the city skyline in the distance. [descry: verb]
Example
The detective's sharp eyes were able to descry the hidden clue in the room. [descrying: gerund or present participle]
detect
Example
The security system was able to detect the intruder's presence in the building. [detect: verb]
Example
The scientist was able to detect a faint signal from the distant planet. [detecting: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Detect is more commonly used than descry in everyday language. Detect is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while descry is less common and may be considered more formal or archaic.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between descrying and detect?
While detect is typically associated with a neutral tone, descry is less common and may be considered more formal or archaic.
