discernment

noun

di-ˈsərn-mənt How to pronounce discernment (audio)
Definition of discernmentnext
as in insight
the ability to understand inner qualities or relationships the discernment to know when someone is a true friend

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun discernment differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of discernment are acumen, discrimination, insight, penetration, and perception. While all these words mean "a power to see what is not evident to the average mind," discernment stresses accuracy (as in reading character or motives or appreciating art).

the discernment to know true friends

When can acumen be used instead of discernment?

While in some cases nearly identical to discernment, acumen implies characteristic penetration combined with keen practical judgment.

a director of reliable box-office acumen

In what contexts can discrimination take the place of discernment?

The words discrimination and discernment are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, 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 is insight a more appropriate choice than discernment?

The words insight and discernment can be used in similar contexts, but insight suggests depth of discernment coupled with understanding sympathy.

a documentary providing insight into the plight of the homeless

When might penetration be a better fit than discernment?

The meanings of penetration and discernment largely overlap; however, 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 is it sensible to use perception instead of discernment?

While the synonyms perception and discernment 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 discernment Simon Cowell recently shared his concern that decades on television as a judge for American Idol, The X Factor, and America's Got Talent may have overstated his powers of discernment a bit. —Ryan Coleman, EW.com, 9 May 2025 Consumers continue to spend, but with greater discernment and higher expectations around speed, value and trust. —Jenny B. Fine, Footwear News, 7 May 2025 Long loved things, but never forgot that things cost money, and sought to encourage both appreciation and discernment. —Rachel Syme, New Yorker, 4 May 2025 Use your discernment — not every vibe is worthy of your investment. —Valerie Mesa, People.com, 20 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for discernment
Recent Examples of Synonyms for discernment
insight
Noun
  • The executive met with Variety ahead of the event to discuss his insights into the Kingdom’s growing role in the global animation market, Manga Productions’ distribution strategy and how homegrown talent is being nurtured through national training programs and international collaborations.
    — Jamie Lang, Variety, 9 June 2025
  • Often, this insight arose in conversation with other women, in consciousness-raising groups.
    — Dayna Tortorici, New Yorker, 9 June 2025
Definition of insight

Browse Nearby Words

discerning
discernment
discerns
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Cite this Entry

“Discernment.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/discernment. Accessed 17 Jun. 2025.

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Nglish: Translation of discernment for Spanish Speakers

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