perception

Universal Words noun (formal) 1 [U] (formal or technical) the way you notice things, especially with the senses: our perception of reality * colour / visual perception seealsoEXTRASENSORYPERCEPTION 2 [U] (formal) the ability to understand the true nature of sth SYNINSIGHT: She showed great perception in her assessment of the family situation. 3 [C] ~ (that...) (formal) an idea, a belief or an image you have as a result of how you see or understand sth: a campaign to change public perception of the police * There is a general public perception that standards in schools are falling.