act of discovery

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "act of discovery" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to describe the process of uncovering or learning something that was previously unknown or hidden. For example, you might say, "The archeology team made an incredible act of discovery when they uncovered the ancient ruins."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

What matters for Mr. Kee's act of discovery is the sense of awakening life.

The New York Times - Arts

To me, a story is an exercise of the imagination — or, as Flannery O'Connor has it, an act of discovery.

The New Yorker

To me, a story is an exercise of the imagination or, as Flannery O'Connor has it, an act of discovery.

The New Yorker

The alchemy that turns junk into wonders has something to do with the act of discovery and the mystery of unbroken time.

The New York Times - Arts

In Mr. Carnevale's bleak picture, learning will no longer be an act of discovery but a process of drilling in predetermined principles of success.

The New York Times

Its satisfactions fall short in terms of "the pure act of discovery" (Edward says he gets that from doing crossword puzzles), but it speaks its mind and demonstrates a reassuring affection for humanity.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

The Polish authorities have begun an investigation into the massacre, as one of many uncomfortable acts of discovery and contrition here.

The New York Times

I think life is a series of acts of discovery," Ellison mused.

Forbes

Self-discovery and the acts of discovery and reflection have never been so discounted.

Huffington Post

Iovine explained in January that Beats was moving into music sales to "bring an emotional connection back to the act of music discovery".

The Guardian - Business

Aljaafreh and Lantolf (op.cit.: 468) state that, Determining a learner's ZPD is an act of negotiated discovery that is realized through dialogic interaction between learner and expert.

Functional Linguistics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using "act of discovery" to frame learning experiences or research endeavors, highlighting the dynamic and revealing nature of these activities.

Common error

Avoid using "act of discovery" when simply referring to routine information gathering or data collection. The phrase is more appropriate when describing a significant revelation or breakthrough.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "act of discovery" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically serves as the subject or object of a sentence, describing a specific instance or process of uncovering new information or knowledge. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "act of discovery" is a grammatically sound and semantically rich expression used to describe the process of uncovering previously unknown information. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and its applicability across diverse contexts. Although categorized as uncommon, it frequently appears in news and media, scientific, and academic sources. When employing this phrase, ensure the context clearly highlights the revelation or new understanding. While alternatives like "process of revelation" or "moment of realization" can be used, "act of discovery" carries a unique emphasis on the dynamic and revealing nature of uncovering new insights. Overall, its effective use enhances clarity and adds significance to written communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

process of revelation

Focuses on the unveiling aspect, suggesting a more dramatic or significant uncovering.

moment of realization

Emphasizes the sudden understanding or awareness gained through discovery.

instance of finding

Highlights the concrete action of locating or encountering something.

exercise in learning

Shifts the focus to the effort and process involved in acquiring knowledge.

path to understanding

Suggests a journey or progression towards comprehension.

unveiling of knowledge

Similar to revelation but with a slightly more formal tone, emphasizing the exposure of information.

quest for answers

Implies a deliberate search or investigation with a specific goal.

exploration of the unknown

Emphasizes venturing into unfamiliar territory to uncover new information.

pursuit of insight

Highlights the active seeking of deeper understanding or intuition.

journey into awareness

Presents discovery as a transformative experience leading to greater consciousness.

FAQs

How can I use "act of discovery" in a sentence?

You can use "act of discovery" to describe moments of insight or revelation, such as, "The archeological dig was a profound "act of discovery", unearthing artifacts from a lost civilization."

What phrases are similar to "act of discovery"?

Similar phrases include "process of revelation", "moment of realization", or "instance of finding", each carrying a slightly different nuance.

Is "act of discovery" formal or informal?

"Act of discovery" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it tends to appear more frequently in academic, news, and media writing. The formality depends on the surrounding language and the specific context.

What is the difference between "act of discovery" and "act of invention"?

"Act of discovery" refers to uncovering something that already exists but was previously unknown, whereas "act of invention" involves creating something entirely new. Discovery reveals; invention creates.