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 And most leadership environments reward performance more than discernment. —Vibhas Ratanjee, Forbes.com, 14 July 2025 Pray for discernment and wisdom for officials making decisions and directing activities. —Chris Roemer, Baltimore Sun, 10 July 2025 Without this foundation of discernment and ethics, AI tools risk becoming crutches rather than enhancement tools that prepare students for responsible AI use throughout their academic and professional careers. —Sarah Hernholm, Forbes.com, 27 June 2025 Leadership programs could train aspiring executives in the discernment of tone, timing, and presentation. —Nitin Nohria, The Atlantic, 10 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for discernment
Recent Examples of Synonyms for discernment
insight
Noun
  • Here are some insights regarding one-day (1D) post-earnings returns: There have been 20 earnings data points recorded over the last five years, with 10 positive and 10 negative one-day (1D) returns observed.
    — Trefis Team, Forbes.com, 14 July 2025
  • Women’s Sports will also feature networking opportunities and exclusive insights into the tools and platforms transforming the women’s sports industry.
    — Sportico Staff, Sportico.com, 14 July 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 4 Aug. 2025.

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