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
  • The prevailing wisdom going into tonight was that Boston had figured itself out, and that the Celtics were about to put their superiority on display the rest of the way.
    Sean Gregory, Time, 13 May 2025
  • The word wisdom in China or any place that's quite old, that is completely out of style.
    Angela Andaloro, People.com, 13 May 2025
Noun
  • Here's a better understanding of what Pope Leo XIV wore on Thursday.
    Greta Cross, USA Today, 9 May 2025
  • To that end, a better understanding of where the American consumer is headed may lie in the automotive aftermarket.
    Faisal Kutty, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 May 2025
Noun
  • Children: Children have a higher sensitivity to chlorella and spirulina than adults.
    Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 8 May 2025
  • Rather than seeing her emotional sensitivity as a liability, Post uses therapeutic work to transform it into a business asset. ForbesWomen: Get the ForbesWomen newsletter, and supercharge your mission with success stories, tips and more.
    Megan Bruneau, Forbes.com, 8 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
  • With consumer confidence at a 13-year low, people are making purchasing decisions with more discernment.
    Igor Rikalo, Forbes.com, 7 May 2025
  • The following day, however, Mercury will meet Mars in a stubborn square, triggering a clash between the need for practicality and discernment versus the desire to express oneself boldly and with pride.
    Staff Author, People.com, 1 May 2025
Noun
  • The musician is a walking satire of downtown presumptions—and his ferocious intellect turns out to be all business, too.
    Richard Brody, New Yorker, 10 May 2025
  • Profound wisdom lives in your most receptive, quiet thoughts so your intuition can guide you where intellect sometimes can’t.
    Colin Bedell, Them., 2 May 2025
Noun
  • Newsweek is partnering with global data intelligence platform Statista for the fifth annual ranking of the World's Best Smart Hospitals.
    Newsweek Rankings, MSNBC Newsweek, 12 May 2025
  • Leverage sales intelligence tools like LinkedIn Sales Navigator to gather insights.
    Besnik Vrellaku, Forbes.com, 12 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 21 May. 2025.

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