discernment

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun discernment differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of discernment are acumen, discrimination, insight, penetration, and perception. While all these words 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

When can acumen be used instead of discernment?

While in some cases nearly identical to discernment, acumen implies characteristic penetration combined with keen practical judgment.

a director of reliable box-office acumen

In what contexts can discrimination take the place of discernment?

The words discrimination and discernment are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, 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

When is insight a more appropriate choice than discernment?

The words insight and discernment can be used in similar contexts, but insight suggests depth of discernment coupled with understanding sympathy.

a documentary providing insight into the plight of the homeless

When might penetration be a better fit than discernment?

The meanings of penetration and discernment largely overlap; however, penetration implies a searching mind that goes beyond what is obvious or superficial.

lacks the penetration to see the scorn beneath their friendly smiles

When is it sensible to use perception instead of discernment?

While the synonyms perception and discernment are close in meaning, perception implies quick and often sympathetic discernment (as of shades of feeling).

a novelist of keen perception into human motives

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of discernment In your estimation, are National Guard troops equipped to patrol the city where aspects of the job could call for discernment, de-escalation, things like that? Michel Martin, NPR, 13 Aug. 2025 July is a month to choose your battles and practice discernment. Meghan Rose, Glamour, 1 Aug. 2025 Journaling can be a helpful tool for relational discernment today. Usa Today, USA Today, 28 July 2025 Illustrated by Wenjing Yang. Libra Sun & Rising: This week begins with a call for discernment, Libra. Dossé-Via Trenou, Refinery29, 20 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for discernment
Recent Examples of Synonyms for discernment
insight
Noun
  • This special event will feature a discussion with contributing authors who will share insights into the book’s development and their personal journeys.
    Jake Richardson, Mercury News, 1 Sep. 2025
  • For all their quibbling over questions of reality versus falsehood, the sparring partners drive at an insight that is central to Thomson’s project in general.
    Jan Tumlir, Artforum, 1 Sep. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Discernment.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/discernment. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on discernment

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!