perceptual
UK[pəˈsep.tʃu.əl]US[pərˈsep.tʃu.əl]
adj
Relating to the ability to interpret or become aware of something through the senses.
adj
Based on or influenced by what is perceived, rather than objective reality.
Morpheme Breakdown
per
cept
ual
per
through
cept
take
ual
adjective suffix
Etymology
The word 'perceptual' is built upon the Latin root percipere, meaning "to seize entirely, to take in". This root itself is a compound of per- ("through, thoroughly") and capere ("to take, grasp"). The core concept is one of mentally grasping or apprehending something through the senses. The suffix -ual transforms the action of perception into an adjective, describing anything pertaining to this process of sensory and cognitive intake. Thus, the modern abstract meaning of 'perceptual'—relating to the interpretation of sensory information—logically extends from the literal ancient idea of "taking in thoroughly".
Analysis
Structure: per (through) + cept (take) + ual (adjective suffix)
- per: A Latin preposition meaning "through, thoroughly".
- cept: A bound root derived from the Latin verb capere, meaning "to take, seize, grasp".
- ual: An adjective-forming suffix of Latin origin (-alis), indicating "relating to or characterized by".
Examples
The study examines the perceptual abilities of infants.
There can be a significant difference between perceptual experience and physical measurement.
The artist plays with perceptual illusions in her work.