discern

1. to know, recognize or understand sth, especially sth that is not obvious
   // It is possible to discern a number of different techniques in her work.
   // He discerned a certain coldness in their welcome.
   // It is often difficult to discern how widespread public support is.
2. to see or hear sth, but not very clearly
   // We could just discern the house in the distance.
   > discernible adjective:
   // There is often no discernible difference between rival brands.
   // His face was barely discernible in the gloom.