Irregular verbs  Regular verbs

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see, sees, seeing, seen, saw

Synonyms: observe, view, behold, perceive, notice

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Antonyms: overlook, ignore, miss, disregard, be blind to

The Verb See – Definition, Usage, and Clarification


The verb see is a fundamental and highly common irregular verb. Its core meaning is to perceive something with your eyes. It also has common figurative meanings related to understanding, realizing, or meeting someone.


VERB FORMS


■ Base Form: see
■ Past Simple: saw
■ Past Participle: seen
■ Present Participle/Gerund: seeing


USAGE AND CONTEXT


'See' is used constantly in everyday language for both literal sight and abstract understanding.


1. Perceiving with Eyes (Sight)
This is its most literal and basic meaning.


■ Vision: 'From the top of the mountain, you can see for miles.'
■ Observation: 'Did you see that car run the red light?'


2. Understanding or Realizing
This figurative use is extremely common.


■ Comprehension: 'Ah, I see what you mean now. Thank you for explaining.'
■ Realization: 'I can't see the point in arguing about it.'


3. Meeting, Visiting, or Dating
This refers to spending time with someone.


■ Visiting: 'I'm going to see my grandparents this weekend.'
■ Dating: 'Are you seeing anyone at the moment?'


ℹ IMPORTANT: 'SEE' VS. 'LOOK' VS. 'WATCH'


These three verbs are often confused, but they have distinct meanings.


■ See: The passive ability of sight. It's often effortless. If your eyes are open, you see.
■ Example: 'I opened the curtains and saw it was raining.'


■ Look: The action of directing your eyes toward something. It's an active and intentional command.
■ Example: 'Look at that beautiful sunset!'


■ Watch: To look at something for a period of time, especially something that is moving or changing.
■ Example: 'Let's stay in and watch a movie tonight.'