it may discern

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it may discern" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the ability of something, such as a system or a person, to perceive or recognize something. Example: "The advanced software is designed to analyze data patterns, and it may discern subtle trends that are not immediately obvious."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Furthermore, it may discern dissimilarities according to gender, as the importance of force and/or technique may vary due to anthropometric characteristics of the swimmer [ 20].

BioMed Research International

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Additionally, by examining pathways from related species, a researcher may discern whether it is likely that there are additional relevant genes that remain to be discovered in a target species.

Database : the journal of biological databases and curation

Most listeners may discern this only subliminally.

The New York Times - Arts

As you may discern, I'm quite bad at crosswords.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

You may discern here that this was Abdullah's first mistake.

The New York Times

Someday we may discern the deeper historical meaning of these latest events.

The New York Times

In the villainous Rumpelstiltskin you may discern a cross between Uriah Heep and the carrot-topped Syndrome from The Incredibles.

Independent

"According to available information, in the play 'The Soul of a Pillow' one may discern elements of propaganda of homosexuality among minors," he wrote.

The New Yorker

It reads in part: "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God — what is good and acceptable and perfect".

The New York Times - Sports

It confirms Koons's scope as an artist unconfined by the conventional art world, whose work addresses everybody, including but not limited to those who may discern influences of Courbet, Brancusi, Duchamp, Dali, Warhol, and Disney.

The New Yorker

It says: "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the will of God — what is good and acceptable and perfect".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it may discern", ensure the subject (the 'it') has the capacity for perception or understanding. For instance, a sophisticated algorithm or a trained observer "may discern" patterns invisible to others.

Common error

Avoid using "it may discern" when the 'it' refers to something inanimate or incapable of judgment without qualification. For example, avoid saying "The rock may discern the wind's direction" unless you're personifying the rock for literary effect.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it may discern" functions as a modal expression indicating a potential ability to perceive or understand something. Ludwig AI shows it's used to suggest a possibility, not a certainty, in recognizing subtle differences or patterns. The modal verb 'may' softens the assertion, indicating a degree of uncertainty.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

38%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it may discern" expresses a potential or possible ability to perceive or understand. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct and usable in various contexts, with a tendency towards science, news, and wiki sources. While alternatives like "it might detect" or "it could recognize" exist, "it may discern" implies a nuanced observation that isn't guaranteed but possible. When writing, ensure the 'it' has the capacity for perception and be mindful of overusing it in contexts where such discernment is illogical or overly anthropomorphic.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it might distinguish

Replaces "discern" with "distinguish", suggesting a clearer separation between elements.

it could perceive

Uses "perceive" instead of "discern", focusing on sensory awareness.

it can detect

Employs "detect", highlighting the ability to identify something present but perhaps hidden.

it is able to recognize

Replaces the modal verb and main verb with a more explicit expression of capability.

it has the capacity to understand

Focuses on comprehension rather than mere recognition.

it is possible to identify

Shifts the focus to the possibility of identification rather than a direct action.

it is capable of differentiating

Highlights the ability to see differences between things.

it is given the ability to see

Expresses the idea of being granted the power to observe.

it is designed to understand

Specifies that something was built with specific design, related to the action of understanding.

it will potentially determine

Emphasizes the possibility of a future determination.

FAQs

How can I use "it may discern" in a sentence?

Use "it may discern" when you want to express that something has the potential or ability to perceive, recognize, or distinguish something, often subtly. For example, "The software "it may discern" patterns that humans miss".

What are some alternatives to "it may discern"?

Alternatives include phrases like "it might detect", "it could recognize", or "it can distinguish", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "it may discern" formal or informal?

"It may discern" is relatively neutral in tone, suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but tends to appear more frequently in analytical or scientific writing.

What does "it may discern" imply about the certainty of perception?

The phrase "it may discern" suggests a possibility or potential for perception, not a guaranteed or definite recognition. It leaves room for uncertainty or the need for further confirmation.