Discover: Definition, Usage & Common Mistakes

Meaning 1：to find something new (discover)

discover 🔊

/dɪˈskʌvər/

vt.

To find or learn about something, a place, or a fact that you did not know about before.

A child discovers a hidden fossil while digging in a garden, illustrating the meaning of discover.

to find something new 🔊

➕

/tuː faɪnd ˈsʌmθɪŋ nuː/

vt.

To become aware of or locate something that was previously unknown.

📁 Category：Technological Inventions 🔖 Level：初级

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Latin 'dis-' (apart) + 'cover' (to cover), meaning to uncover.

💡 Mnemonic

Think 'dis-cover': remove the cover to find what's hidden underneath.

📖 Example

While researching solar cells, the scientists discovered a new material that greatly increases efficiency. 🔊 During their study of solar cells, scientists found a new material that significantly boosts efficiency.

🔗 Collocations

discover a secret – to find out a hidden fact

discover the truth – to learn the real facts

discover new evidence – to find additional proof

🔄 Synonyms

find (vt.) – to come upon by chance or effort

uncover (vt.) – to remove a cover and reveal something

detect (vt.) – to discover or identify the presence of something

🚫 Antonyms

conceal (vt.) – to hide or keep secret

cover up (phr. v.) – to hide the truth

overlook (vt.) – to fail to notice or consider

🌱 Derivatives

discovery (n.) – the act of finding something new

discoverer (n.) – a person who finds something unknown

discoverable (adj.) – able to be found or uncovered

📖 Cultural Story

Derived from Old French 'descovrir', from Latin 'dis-' + 'cooperire'. Historically used in exploration, like discovering new lands.