Synonym Chooser

How does the noun insight differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of insight are acumen, discernment, discrimination, penetration, and perception. While all these words mean "a power to see what is not evident to the average mind," insight suggests depth of discernment coupled with understanding sympathy.

a documentary providing insight into the plight of the homeless

When is acumen a more appropriate choice than insight?

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

a director of reliable box-office acumen

Where would discernment be a reasonable alternative to insight?

Although the words discernment and insight have much in common, discernment stresses accuracy (as in reading character or motives or appreciating art).

the discernment to know true friends

When could discrimination be used to replace insight?

In some situations, the words discrimination and insight are roughly equivalent. However, 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 would penetration be a good substitute for insight?

The words penetration and insight can be used in similar contexts, but 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 can perception be used instead of insight?

While the synonyms perception and insight 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 insight Flexing star QBs and huge ratings Television executives talk to The Athletic's Richard Deitsch, offering insights on each network's strategies and outlook in 2025. Jeff Howe, New York Times, 16 May 2025 Her first trip into a war zone is jarring, but provides scant insight. Dennis Harvey, Variety, 16 May 2025 Known for her nuanced performances and fearless role choices, Krieps will share insights into her artistic journey, the challenges of portraying complex characters, and her approach to storytelling across diverse cinematic landscapes. Christian Blauvelt, IndieWire, 16 May 2025 But the May 9 order gave no insight into how the president planned to overcome hurdles that have long stymied the dream of a vibrant veteran community on the 388-acre property, which was donated to the U.S. government in 1888 as a home for disabled soldiers. Doug Smith, Los Angeles Times, 15 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for insight
Recent Examples of Synonyms for insight
Noun
  • Meanwhile, the voters’ wisdom in trying to check pension costs has been repeatedly confirmed.
    U T Editorial Board, San Diego Union-Tribune, 23 May 2025
  • Still, Stuy pitches adoptees on the wisdom of testing.
    Barbara Demick, New Yorker, 23 May 2025
Noun
  • And the clear understanding on the part of Spielberg of what Stanley Kubrick used to call the submersible units of narrative.
    Mike Fleming Jr, Deadline, 20 May 2025
  • Without mutual understanding, both can feel unseen or misunderstood.
    Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 20 May 2025
Noun
  • Common effects include nausea, vomiting and extreme sensitivity to light and sound.
    Peter Burke, FOXNews.com, 19 May 2025
  • In one analysis, participants who slept less than six hours for several nights experienced hormonal changes that increased appetite, decreased insulin sensitivity and elevated cortisol levels (the stress hormone that, in excess, can impair immunity and gut function).
    Ximena Araya-Fischel, Forbes.com, 19 May 2025
Noun
  • However, two-thirds of Americans recognize that being a K-12 teacher is harder than most jobs, indicating a perception gap between the two groups.
    Bruno V. Manno, Forbes.com, 18 May 2025
  • Neither is true — and this confusion illustrates California’s perception problem, even among filmmakers who would like to shoot there.
    Aaron Couch, HollywoodReporter, 17 May 2025
Noun
  • Use your discernment — not every vibe is worthy of your investment.
    Valerie Mesa, People.com, 20 May 2025
  • Dent suggests that teaching your children about appropriate behaviors and discernment can prove beneficial in future circumstances.
    Jazmin Towe, Parents, 9 May 2025
Noun
  • Along with interactivity, embodied experiences become multi-sensory that bypass the intellect and speak to the heart, connecting facts to emotions and emotions to lasting action.
    Victoria Bousis, Rolling Stone, 22 May 2025
  • Season 2 has robbed Ellie of her agency, her rage, her competency, her intellect.
    Erik Kain, Forbes.com, 20 May 2025
Noun
  • The group is a terrorist organization made up of operatives, spies and intelligence officials from agencies around the world who want to create a new world order.
    Keith Langston, People.com, 24 May 2025
  • According to a new assessment from no fewer than 11 countries’ intelligence agencies, the hacker group has been targeting a broad array of technology and logistics firms involved in providing aid to Ukraine.
    Andy Greenberg, Wired News, 24 May 2025
Noun
  • According to the lore, this magical juice bestowed strength and sagacity upon all those who imbibed it.
    Brad Japhe, Forbes.com, 30 Apr. 2025
  • But carry a big stick, in the form of astute sagacity.
    ESSENCE Editors, Essence, 17 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Insight.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/insight. Accessed 31 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on insight

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