For being aware of something:
* Perceive: This is a general verb for becoming aware of something through the senses.
* Recognize: This implies understanding or identifying something you are aware of.
* Notice: This implies paying attention to something you are aware of.
* Realize: This suggests a sudden understanding or awareness of something.
* Acknowledge: This means admitting the existence of something you are aware of.
For being awake or alert:
* Awaken: This means to become conscious after being asleep.
* Arouse: This means to make someone become conscious or aware of something.
* Wake up: This is a simple and direct way to say someone becomes conscious.
For being intentionally aware of something:
* Consider: This means to think carefully about something you are conscious of.
* Reflect: This means to think deeply about something you are conscious of.
* Focus: This means to direct your attention to something you are conscious of.
The best verb to use depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey. For example, "The patient perceived the doctor's presence" is different from "The patient realized their mistake."