Perception
/pərˈsepʃən/
Definitions
2 meaningsThe process of becoming aware of something through the senses; an individual's way of regarding, understanding, or interpreting something; a sensory experience.
/pərˈsepʃən/
The ability to see, hear, or become aware of something through the senses.
His perception of the problem was accurate.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're looking at a painting. Your perception is how you *see* and *understand* the colors, shapes, and the overall picture. It’s what you *get* from using your eyes (or other senses)!
👶 For kids: When you see, hear, smell, taste, or touch something, that's your perception! It's how you understand the world around you using your senses.
More Examples
Our perceptions of reality can be different.
The artist aimed to challenge the viewer's perceptions.
How It's Used
"Visual perception is the process by which we interpret the light reflected off objects."
"Her perception of the situation was completely different from mine."
A belief or opinion, often based on how things seem or are understood. How someone understands something.
/pərˈsepʃən/
A belief or opinion, often based on how things seem.
Public perception of the candidate was crucial to the election's outcome.
💡 Simply: Imagine what people *think* about you. That's your reputation, or perception. It's how others *understand* you based on what they see and hear.
👶 For kids: It's what you think or feel about something or someone. Like, what do you think about broccoli? That's your perception of broccoli!
More Examples
The company's perception of its market changed over time.
Her perception of him as a friend shifted after the betrayal.
How It's Used
"Public perception of the company was damaged by the scandal."
"Marketing strategies often try to shape consumer perception."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
perception is reality
What people believe to be true or real is what ultimately matters, even if it's not objectively accurate.
"Although the company was doing well, the negative media coverage meant that perception was reality; the public thought they were failing."
From Middle French *percepcion*, from Latin *perceptio* ('a gathering, receiving'), from *percipere* ('to seize, understand'), from *per-* ('thoroughly') + *capere* ('to take').
The word 'perception' has been used since the late 14th century, initially related to the act of apprehending with the mind or senses.
Memory tip
Think of your five senses. Perception is how you *perceive* the world through these senses.
Word Origin
"to take in, receive, or understand fully"