To perceive or recognize clearly; to distinguish between different things using careful judgment or insight. Often implies the ability to see subtle differences or hidden truths.
From Old French 'discerner,' from Latin 'discernere' meaning 'to separate' or 'to distinguish,' from 'dis-' (apart) plus 'cernere' (to sift or separate). The word emphasizes the mental process of separating truth from falsehood or one thing from another.
Think of 'dis-' (apart) + 'cern' (like 'concern')—you're separating your concerns to see clearly what's really important. It's like having mental vision that can pick out details others miss!
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