Perceptual Grouping

Definition

Perceptual grouping is the process by which our brain organizes individual elements into a coherent whole based on their similarity, proximity, and other factors. It allows us to perceive objects as distinct from their surroundings.

Related terms

Similarity:

Similarity refers to the tendency to group together elements that share similar features such as shape, size, or color.

Proximity:

Proximity describes the tendency to perceive elements that are close to each other as belonging together.

Figure-ground relationship: The figure-ground relationship is another Gestalt principle where we naturally separate an object (the figure) from its surrounding background (the ground) based on contrast or prominence.