penetration

discernment, discrimination, perception, penetration, insight, acumen mean a power to see what is not evident to the average mind. discernment stresses accuracy (as in reading character or motives or appreciating art).

• • the discernment to know true friends

discrimination stresses the power to distinguish and select what is true or appropriate or excellent.

• • the discrimination that develops through listening to a lot of great music

perception implies quick and often sympathetic discernment (as of shades of feeling).

• • a novelist of keen perception into human motives

penetration implies a searching mind that goes beyond what is obvious or superficial.

• • lacks the penetration to see the scorn beneath their friendly smiles

insight suggests depth of discernment coupled with understanding sympathy.

• • a documentary providing insight into the plight of the homeless

acumen implies characteristic penetration combined with keen practical judgment.

• • a director of reliable box-office acumen