espy

/is'pai/
Học thuật
Thân thiện
Definition
  1. Verb:
    • To catch sight of; to see, especially something distant, hidden, or not easily noticed: To notice or observe something, often suddenly or unexpectedly, after looking carefully.
Examples of Usage
  • Verb:
    • From the tower, the lookout could espy the approaching ships on the horizon.
    • I managed to espy a rare bird hiding among the dense branches.
    • She espied a familiar face in the crowded market.
Advanced Usage
  • "To espy something/someone": This is the standard construction. The object is the thing or person seen.
    • The detective espied a clue that everyone else had missed.
  • The word often carries a slightly literary or old-fashioned tone, suggesting a keen or watchful observation.
Variants and Related Words
  • Espial (noun, archaic): The act of espying; observation, discovery.
    • The espial of the enemy's camp was crucial to their plan.
Synonyms
  • Spot: To see or notice someone or something, often suddenly.
  • Discern: To see, recognize, or understand something that is not clear.
  • Catch sight of: To see something or someone for a moment.
  • Make out: To manage to see or hear something with difficulty.
Antonyms
  • Overlook: To fail to notice or consider something.
  • Miss: To fail to see, hear, or notice.
Related Phrases and Idioms
  • While there are no common idioms using "espy" itself, the concept is related to phrases like "to catch a glimpse of" or "to lay eyes on," though these are more modern and common.
Verb
  1. catch sight of

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