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 Read the full Taurus Daily Horoscope Gemini (May 21 - June 21) Use discernment in a group narrative today. Usa Today, USA Today, 17 Apr. 2025 His position that requires superhuman capacities for discernment, judgment, manipulation, and self-protection—capacities demanded and cultivated in smaller amounts in everyday citizens. Philip Tinari, Artforum, 1 Mar. 2025 The methods used for this discernment need to be further extended. Lance Eliot, Forbes, 28 Feb. 2025 Drawing the line between fact and fiction requires more than labels, and without critical thinking and discernment, that line will remain dangerously blurry, potentially with serious results. Peter Suciu, Forbes.com, 10 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for discernment
Recent Examples of Synonyms for discernment
insight
Noun
  • After completing a cleaning cycle, users receive a 2D map of the pool’s layout and cleaning paths, offering insights into the areas covered.
    Jason Phillips, USA Today, 17 May 2025
  • That kind of clarity – knowing what matters, and acting on it – demands both insight and courage.
    Eric Mosley, Forbes.com, 16 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Discernment.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/discernment. Accessed 22 May. 2025.

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