What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
spied
Example
She spied on her neighbor through the window. [spied: verb]
Example
I spied a rare bird in the tree. [spied: past tense]
detect
Example
The detective was able to detect the suspect's lies. [detect: verb]
Example
Dogs can detect scents that humans cannot. [detect: present tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Detect is more commonly used than spied in everyday language. Detect is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while spied is less common and has a more specific meaning.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between spied and detect?
Detect is more formal than spied. It is a versatile word that can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while spied is more informal and has a more limited usage.
