insightful

adjective

in·​sight·​ful ˈin-ˌsīt-fəl How to pronounce insightful (audio) in-ˈsīt- How to pronounce insightful (audio)
Synonyms of insightfulnext
: exhibiting or characterized by insight
insightful criticism
insightfully adverb

Examples of insightful in a Sentence

Her analysis of the problem was very insightful. a critical study featuring an insightful analysis of the novelist's recurring themes
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The interview wasn’t terribly insightful — the host seemed more interested in congratulating Panahi for being a hero than in exploring the context for that heroism. Steven Zeitchik, HollywoodReporter, 5 Mar. 2026 The audience was previously told that that problem was meant to be incredibly difficult, taking years of expert thinking to resolve, yet it was quickly worked out by Damon’s insightful janitor in just moments. Manon Bischoff, Scientific American, 1 Mar. 2026 The second insightful discourse will be with none other than Worthy himself, the guest of honor. Viju Mathew, Robb Report, 27 Feb. 2026 Eric’s responses are well thought out, insightful and sensitive to all sides of the issue being presented. Ticked Off, The Orlando Sentinel, 27 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for insightful

Word History

First Known Use

1907, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of insightful was in 1907

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Cite this Entry

“Insightful.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/insightful. Accessed 11 Mar. 2026.

Medical Definition

insightful

adjective
in·​sight·​ful ˈin-ˌsīt-fəl How to pronounce insightful (audio) in-ˈ How to pronounce insightful (audio)
: exhibiting or characterized by insight
insightful behavior
insightfully adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on insightful

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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