Synonym Chooser

How does the noun acumen differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of acumen are discernment, discrimination, insight, penetration, and perception. While all these words mean "a power to see what is not evident to the average mind," acumen implies characteristic penetration combined with keen practical judgment.

a director of reliable box-office acumen

When would discernment be a good substitute for acumen?

The words discernment and acumen are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, discernment stresses accuracy (as in reading character or motives or appreciating art).

the discernment to know true friends

When is it sensible to use discrimination instead of acumen?

While the synonyms discrimination and acumen are close in meaning, 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 acumen?

The meanings of insight and acumen largely overlap; however, insight suggests depth of discernment coupled with understanding sympathy.

a documentary providing insight into the plight of the homeless

When could penetration be used to replace acumen?

The words penetration and acumen can be used in similar contexts, but 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 might perception be a better fit than acumen?

The synonyms perception and acumen are sometimes interchangeable, but 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 acumen Marquez will help the magazine triple down on that mission, thanks to her fashion acumen and a high-level of L.A. style institutional knowledge. Los Angeles Times, 13 Dec. 2022 The Eagles opening the season 8-0 for the first time in franchise history which is due in part to his football acumen and talent. Mohammad Ahmad, cleveland, 9 Dec. 2022 Lon Morey — who runs Morbark, another wood chipper company — had been recognized by Northwood for his business acumen and support, and helped the university set up a meeting. Frank Witsil, Detroit Free Press, 2 Dec. 2022 Iger is widely considered entertainment industry royalty, celebrated for his management acumen and creative chops. Daniel Arkin, NBC News, 21 Nov. 2022 See All Example Sentences for acumen
Recent Examples of Synonyms for acumen
Noun
  • In this sense, artificial intelligence remains quite unlike, and less capable than, human intelligence.
    Rob Toews, Forbes, 23 Mar. 2025
  • Three of its members are in NATO, and there are already indicators that former and current members of the intelligence community across the Five Eyes are concerned over how the alliance could be compromised with Trump at the helm.
    Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 22 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • At the time, the Great Depression wore heavily on Americans, and Shirley Temple’s effervescence, wit, and perpetually bright demeanor seemed to give the country hope amid dark days.
    Michelle Duncan, Architectural Digest, 28 Mar. 2025
  • Though Bell did not prevail over her opponents, Jeopardy fans have taken to social media to share their memories of her sharp wit and memorable answers during her appearance on the show.
    Ryan Coleman, EW.com, 26 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • Newsletter Get the lowdown on L.A. politics Sign up for our L.A. City Hall newsletter to get weekly insights, scoops and analysis.
    Dakota Smith, Los Angeles Times, 29 Mar. 2025
  • By providing tools that streamline data workflows, Corral empowers organizations to make informed decisions, uncover insights, and drive strategic initiatives.
    Andrea Wasserman, Forbes.com, 29 Mar. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Acumen.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/acumen. Accessed 5 Apr. 2025.

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