A2noun2K

Discovery

UK /["/dɪˈskʌvəri/"]/US /["/dɪˈskʌvəri/"]/

Definition

an act or the process of finding somebody/something, or learning about something that was not known about before

In simple words: Finding something new or learning something that was not known before.

Examples

  • The discovery of the ancient ruins changed our understanding of history.
  • Her discovery of a new species thrilled the scientific community.
  • The discovery process can often lead to unexpected results in experiments.
  • Every great inventor has a story of their discovery that led to success.
  • The discovery of America by Columbus is a significant historical event.
  • The detective's discovery of the hidden clues resolved the case.

Usage notes

Commonly used in both spoken and written English. Works well in academic and everyday contexts. Avoid in very casual conversations where simpler terms like 'find' might be preferred.

Grammar pattern

discovery + of + object

Memory hint

Think of 'discover' as 'uncovering' — when you take the cover off a box and find something inside.

Collocations

  • big
  • great
  • important
  • make
  • lead to
  • await
  • discovery by
  • discovery of
  • a process of discovery
  • a journey of discovery
  • a voyage of discovery
  • big
  • great
  • important
  • make
  • lead to
  • await
  • discovery by
  • discovery of
  • a process of discovery
  • a journey of discovery
  • a voyage of discovery

Synonyms

  • finding
  • revelation
  • detection
  • unearthing
  • realization

Antonyms

  • loss
  • concealment

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'discovery' as a verb — remember it's a noun.
  • Using in past tense incorrectly — 'discovered' is the verb form.
  • Mixing up 'discovery' with 'invention' — they are not the same.