detect (something) in (something)

detect (something) in (something)

To distinguish the presence of something in something else, typically something that is being masked or is present in only a small quantity. Do I detect sarcasm in that statement, Jane? I think I detect a pinch of cinnamon in this, but I could be wrong. It's not hard to detect passive-aggressiveness in Mom's tone of voice.

See also: detect

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

detect something in something

to recognize or identify something in something. Can you detect the anger in her voice? I detect a bit of sarcasm in your comments.

See also: detect

McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.