discover

word

/dɪˈskəvɝ/
di-SKUHV-ur
/dɪskˈʌvɐ/
di-SKUHV-uh

Definition

To find something for the first time, or to learn something that was not known before. It can be used for physical things, places, facts, or personal realizations.

Usage & Nuances

Common patterns include 'discover a place', 'discover the truth', and 'discover that + clause'. It often suggests surprise or new knowledge; for scientific contexts, it is stronger than simply 'find'. Do not confuse it with 'invent': you discover something that already exists, but you invent something new.

Example Sentences

We discovered a small beach near the hotel.

basic

She discovered that her keys were in her bag.

basic

Once you discover what works for you, studying gets much easier.

natural

Scientists discovered a new species of fish.

basic

I discovered this café by accident, and now I come here all the time.

natural

He was shocked to discover that everyone already knew the news.

natural