French Conversation · Level 48
74 words
French word
détecter
Pronunciation
IPA/detɛkte/
Meaning
- verbdetect
Example
Le chien a détecté un intrus.
The dog detected an intruder.
More examples
La caméra a détecté un mouvement suspect.
The camera detected a suspicious movement.
Core concept
A concealed presence leaves a trace that careful observation or a test brings into view.
Common phrases
détecter un problème
detect a problem
détecter une erreur
detect an error
détecter une fuite
detect a leak
Similar words
remarquer: To become aware of a change or distinctive feature through ordinary attention.
apercevoir: To catch sight of something briefly and sense its presence.
Definition in French
Percevoir ou mettre en évidence la présence d'un élément caché ou discret, souvent grâce à des instruments, des examens ou à une observation attentive.
Word origin
The verb détecter is a learned formation related to Latin detegere, "uncover," with detect- as its base and -er as its French verb ending.
Usage tips
- Détecter suits technical, medical, and investigative findings, while remarquer is more general for noticing something in ordinary situations.