B2verbpsychologyemotions
US/sens/
UK/sens/
to feel or understand something without being told or seeing it clearly
More often (noun): a natural ability to see, hear, smell, taste or touch; a feeling or good judgement
In context
She sensed that something was wrong when her son came home silent.
Dogs can often sense when their owners are sad.
I sensed a bit of anger in his voice on the phone.
Words that go with sense
verb + noun
- sense dangerAnimals can sense danger before an earthquake.
- sense fearHorses can sense fear in the people riding them.
- sense a changeFans sensed a change in the team after the new coach arrived.
- sense troubleWhen the boss called everyone in, I sensed trouble.
adverb + verb
- immediately senseShe immediately sensed that he was lying.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
I sensed him sad.Correct: I sensed that he was sad.