What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
see
Example
I can see the mountains in the distance. [see: verb]
Example
Did you see that bird fly by? [see: verb]
Example
Let's go see a movie tonight. [see: verb]
perceive
Example
I perceive a hint of cinnamon in this dish. [perceive: verb]
Example
She perceived his tone as sarcastic. [perceived: past tense]
Example
The dog's sense of smell allows it to perceive scents that humans cannot. [perceive: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
See is more commonly used than perceive in everyday language, and is versatile enough to cover a wide range of contexts. Perceive is less common and more formal, and is typically used in more specific or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between see and perceive?
Perceive is generally considered more formal than see, and is often used in academic or technical writing. See is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
