Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective astute differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of astute are perspicacious, sagacious, and shrewd. While all these words mean "acute in perception and sound in judgment," astute suggests shrewdness, perspicacity, and diplomatic skill.

an astute player of party politics

When could perspicacious be used to replace astute?

While in some cases nearly identical to astute, perspicacious implies unusual power to see through and understand what is puzzling or hidden.

a perspicacious counselor saw through the child's facade

When might sagacious be a better fit than astute?

In some situations, the words sagacious and astute are roughly equivalent. However, sagacious suggests wisdom, penetration, and farsightedness.

sagacious investors got in on the ground floor

When would shrewd be a good substitute for astute?

Although the words shrewd and astute have much in common, shrewd stresses practical, hardheaded cleverness and judgment.

a shrewd judge of character

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 astute Brooker turns what would otherwise be a dark comedy sketch into an astute depiction of public opinion’s changing tides, and the uncanny speed with which the unthinkable enters the realm of the acceptable. Charles Bramesco, Vulture, 10 Apr. 2025 Only the most astute short-term traders can do well in wild markets; ordinary investors need to keep calm and ignore all the headlines and price gyrations. Sal Gilbertie, Forbes.com, 4 Apr. 2025 At the same time, Scott’s act of mass ventriloquism—patient, playful, physically astute and ultimately brave—clarifies something at the heart of Chekhov’s play. Sara Holdren, Vulture, 18 Mar. 2025 But, like any astute power ranking, there are certain tells about which nominees have an advantage. Devon Ivie, Vulture, 3 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for astute
Recent Examples of Synonyms for astute
Adjective
  • An increasing number of smart, eco-conscious entrepreneurs are putting Earth first by utilizing unwanted materials that would otherwise end up as trash.
    Lisa Jhung, Outside Online, 22 Apr. 2025
  • But smart leaders know that not all bets are created equal—and not all uncertainty plays by the same rules.
    Paola Cecchi-Dimeglio, Forbes.com, 22 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Getting Jones in Round 5 in 2022 was a shrewd move, but the Bears need more Day 2 and Day 3 hits.
    Brad Biggs, Chicago Tribune, 22 Apr. 2025
  • Their choice already looks shrewd, with Smith producing a 1.54 ERA in his first two starts.
    Ken Rosenthal, New York Times, 11 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • But the truly savvy teens aren't punching time clocks.
    Sarah Hernholm, Forbes.com, 20 Apr. 2025
  • Everyone recognizes the president’s affinity for gold, so test your trivia savvy!
    Alexis Simendinger, The Hill, 17 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Guidance and tariffs Dover made a few wise adjustments to its full-year outlook.
    Jeff Marks, CNBC, 24 Apr. 2025
  • Deferring college acceptance—postponing enrollment typically for one year—can be a thoughtful strategy when life circumstances, personal goals or practical considerations suggest that waiting might be the wiser path.
    Dr. Aviva Legatt, Forbes.com, 24 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Astute.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/astute. Accessed 30 Apr. 2025.

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