Detect is used with several senses. Which option reflects a meaning closest to discovering or catching something?

• A. To note or to feel something
• B. To discover or catch
• C. To note the presence of
• D. To ignore

Answer: (B)

Detect carries several senses, but the one that best aligns with discovering or catching is the sense that means to discover or catch. This use captures the idea of uncovering something that wasn’t obvious or capturing it in some way, such as detecting a thief or detecting a leak. The other options revolve around sensing, noting, or observing in a way that doesn’t inherently imply bringing something to light or capturing it: to note or feel something emphasizes perception or sensation, not necessarily exposing or grabbing; to note the presence of focuses on observing that something exists, which can be passive; to ignore is simply the opposite of noticing. So the meaning that most directly conveys the act of discovering or catching fits best.