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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 There is a perception in India that it has been unfairly targeted, given that Europe also buys Russian energy, and China even more, but faced no consequences. Happymon Jacob, Time, 3 Sep. 2025 Black cohosh also targeted opioid receptors in the emotional areas of the brain which could affect a person’s perception of pain. Jocelyn Solis-Moreira, Flow Space, 3 Sep. 2025 But instead, the justice system, public perception, and ego drove a wedge through one of Atlanta’s last great rap movements. Andre Gee, Rolling Stone, 3 Sep. 2025 Part of Ayoub's mission is to challenge perceptions of Palestinians and empower women and children. Marni Rose McFall, MSNBC Newsweek, 21 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for perception
Recent Examples of Synonyms for perception
Noun
  • But planning a trip that appeals to every age group often requires careful thought and expert insight.
    Travel + Leisure Editors, Travel + Leisure, 9 Sep. 2025
  • The adorable video has brought both laughter and some interesting insights into animal behavior from commenters.
    Maria Morava, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Thank you so much for your understanding.
    Soo Kim, MSNBC Newsweek, 3 Sep. 2025
  • An unexpected connection that transcends class develops between them, one rooted in mutual respect, understanding, and slow-burning affection.
    EW.com, EW.com, 2 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Still, the daughter insists that this is about more than sensitivity.
    Ashley Vega, PEOPLE, 8 Sep. 2025
  • Janelle and Lisa’s sensitivity to materials, language and symbols has resulted in a collection of work whose power lies in its balance between accessibility and poetry.
    Michael James Rocha, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Hoffman grew up visiting the Cincinnati Zoo, which led to his appreciation for nature.
    Bebe Hodges, Cincinnati Enquirer, 4 Sep. 2025
  • Writer Claudia Riiff Finseth credits Tolkien’s Catholic upbringing and interest in Anglo-Saxon literature to his appreciation of the tree’s rich symbolism.
    Ellen Walker, JSTOR Daily, 3 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Perception.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/perception. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on perception

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