C1noun2K

Detection

UK /["/dɪˈtekʃn/"]/US /["/dɪˈtekʃn/"]/

Definition

the process of discovering or noticing something, especially something that is not easy to see, hear, etc.; the fact of being discovered or noticed

In simple words: Finding or discovering something.

Examples

  • crime prevention and detection
  • Last year the detection rate for car theft was just 13 per cent.
  • Many problems, however, escape detection.
  • Early detection of cancers is vitally important.
  • The latest figures show falling crime detection rates.
  • Their prey can sometimes escape detection by remaining still.
  • radiation detection equipment
  • the quest to improve breast cancer detection

Usage notes

Use 'detection' in contexts related to discovering problems or identifying specific things, such as in science or security. Avoid in casual conversations unless discussing specific technical topics.

Grammar pattern

detection + of + object

Memory hint

Think of 'detective' — they find things through detection.

Collocations

  • early
  • crime
  • fraud
  • avoid
  • escape
  • evade
  • rate
  • method
  • system

Synonyms

  • discovery
  • identification
  • recognition
  • revelation
  • uncovering

Antonyms

  • ignorance
  • overlooking

Common mistakes

  • 'Detection' is often confused with 'detecting' as a verb.
  • Mistakenly used in non-technical contexts where simpler words fit better.
  • Confusing the meaning with 'inference' or 'assumption'.