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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 The increase in positive perception about immigration was, in part, due to a bump among GOP voters and, to a limited degree, independents, Gallup noted. Filip Timotija, The Hill, 11 July 2025 And the origin of aloha—ha being breath, life—calls to mind the Buddhist perception of happiness as equanimity. AFAR Media, 10 July 2025 Researchers found major gaps between public perception and science, highlighting the need for more comprehensive education. New Atlas, 10 July 2025 Remember, everyone is entitled to their opinion, and everyone’s perception comes from their unique place in this world. Dr. Diane Hamilton, Forbes.com, 5 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for perception
Recent Examples of Synonyms for perception
Noun
  • Luckey told me that his central insight with Oculus was to distinguish himself from competitors by focussing less on the headset’s mechanism and more on its software.
    Dexter Filkins, New Yorker, 14 July 2025
  • However, only 120 appear on Google Maps for the entire state, meaning finding the restrooms may require a bit more local insight.
    Opheli Garcia Lawler, Travel + Leisure, 14 July 2025
Noun
  • So are basic physics, the general understanding of human limitations, logic.
    Megan Feringa, New York Times, 20 July 2025
  • Rawlinson, who said her experiences as a woman of color have informed her understanding of the issue, agreed.
    Alyce Brown, Chicago Tribune, 19 July 2025
Noun
  • But… Mind the Volatility The primary risk associated with Monarch stock is its heightened sensitivity to market downturns.
    Trefis Team, Forbes.com, 18 July 2025
  • The Justice Department has cited the need to protect the identities of victims and witnesses, along with the sensitivity of grand jury materials, as reasons for withholding additional evidence.
    Gabe Whisnant, MSNBC Newsweek, 18 July 2025
Noun
  • And there’s this deep appreciation for culture and the way these countries developed, especially as an outsider looking at the United States.
    Seth Abramovitch, HollywoodReporter, 11 July 2025
  • First, exhibit appreciation for and an interest in others’ abilities, skills, knowledge and perspectives.
    Susan Madsen, Forbes.com, 11 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Perception.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/perception. Accessed 25 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on perception

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