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Synonym Chooser

How does the noun perception differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of perception are acumen, discernment, discrimination, insight, and penetration. While all these words mean "a power to see what is not evident to the average mind," perception implies quick and often sympathetic discernment (as of shades of feeling).

a novelist of keen perception into human motives

Where would acumen be a reasonable alternative to perception?

The synonyms acumen and perception are sometimes interchangeable, but acumen implies characteristic penetration combined with keen practical judgment.

a director of reliable box-office acumen

When is it sensible to use discernment instead of perception?

While the synonyms discernment and perception are close in meaning, 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 perception?

Although the words discrimination and perception have much in common, 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 might insight be a better fit than perception?

In some situations, the words insight and perception are roughly equivalent. However, insight suggests depth of discernment coupled with understanding sympathy.

a documentary providing insight into the plight of the homeless

When is penetration a more appropriate choice than perception?

The words penetration and perception are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, penetration implies a searching mind that goes beyond what is obvious or superficial.

lacks the penetration to see the scorn beneath their friendly smiles

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 perception After reciting poetry, the same situation may appear differently, although nothing has changed except our perception, creating a space where the mystical, magical, or miraculous coexist, crafting a silver lining into the dark clouds of misfortune. K.j.s. “sunny” Anand, Time, 15 Oct. 2025 Others invite audiences into embodied experiences without headsets, creating physical environments that challenge perceptions of reality, and confront the impact of technology on society and the human condition. Matthew Carey, Deadline, 14 Oct. 2025 And there are two sides to every story, so if their perception of what happened is different than mine, involving them gets messy. Seija Rankin, HollywoodReporter, 14 Oct. 2025 And that perception alone is proving a powerful advantage. Mackenzie Sigalos, CNBC, 14 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for perception
Recent Examples of Synonyms for perception
Noun
  • This is the web version of CEO Daily, a newsletter of must-read global insights from CEOs and industry leaders.
    Diane Brady, Fortune, 14 Oct. 2025
  • That breadth of insight and analysis extends from the on-court Xs and Os to team dynamics and development.
    Jace Frederick, Twin Cities, 13 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Snake wrangling requires patience, steady movements, and a deep understanding of reptile behavior.
    Lydia Patrick, MSNBC Newsweek, 14 Oct. 2025
  • The award recognizes filmmakers whose work has illuminated history, inspired public discourse, and deepened cultural understanding — a legacy Burns has embodied throughout his decades-long career.
    Clayton Davis, Variety, 14 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Both requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the talks.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 12 Oct. 2025
  • Millions of Americans experience food sensitivities or allergies every year.
    Deputy News Editor, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Her fans started donating $13 — Swift’s favorite number — to the Monterey Bay Aquarium to show their appreciation for the singer.
    Renan Botelho, Footwear News, 16 Oct. 2025
  • Its clothing doesn’t come cheap — a nylon tunnel down hooded jacket costs $1,075 — but its investment in material innovation and appreciation of (and ability to intertwine with) modern culture has contributed to its enduring popularity.
    Steve Salter, CNN Money, 15 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Perception.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/perception. Accessed 20 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on perception

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