perceber

Perceber is a Portuguese verb with a broad range of meanings centered on sensing, noticing, realizing, or understanding. It covers both sensory perception and cognitive awareness, depending on context. In everyday use, it can refer to noticing a physical input (perceber algo através dos sentidos) as well as becoming aware of a fact or situation (perceber que something is the case). The nuance often shifts between noticing something immediately and gradually understanding its implications.

Etymology and related forms: Perceber derives from Latin percipere, from per- (through) and capere (to take). Related nouns include percepção (perception) and adjectives such as perceptível (perceptible). The reflexive form perceber-se can express realizing or becoming aware of something oneself.

Conjugation and grammar: Perceber is a regular -er verb. Present indicative forms include eu percebo, tu percebes, ele percebe, nós percebemos, vós percebeis, eles percebem. Preterite forms are eu percebi, tu percebeste, ele percebeu, nós percebemos, eles perceberam. Imperfect forms are eu percebia, tu percebias, ele percebia, nós percebíamos, eles percebiam. Subjunctive present forms are que eu perceba, que tu percebas, que ele perceba, que nós percebamos, que eles percebam. The verb frequently appears in non-finite forms such as perceber, percebido (past participle).

Usage notes: Perceber is often used where English would say “notice,” “realize,” or “understand,” with nuance depending on context. When followed by que, it frequently means realizing that something is true. With a direct object, it can mean to notice or grasp something concretely or conceptually. It is commonly contrasted with compreender or entender, which carry stronger senses of deliberate understanding.

See also: percepção, perceptível, perceção (regional spelling variations).