discernment stresses accuracy (as in reading character or motives or appreciating art).
the discernment to know true friends
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
perception implies quick and often sympathetic discernment (as of shades of feeling).
a novelist of keen perception into human motives
penetration implies a searching mind that goes beyond what is obvious or superficial.
lacks the penetration to see the scorn beneath their friendly smiles
insight suggests depth of discernment coupled with understanding sympathy.
a documentary providing insight into the plight of the homeless
acumen implies characteristic penetration combined with keen practical judgment.
a director of reliable box-office acumen
Example Sentences
Cuts in the skin could permit the penetration of bacteria into the body. the penetration of the CIA by foreign agents the penetration of the U.S. market by a foreign company multiple penetrations into enemy territory a writer who analyzes the underlying causes of the recession with great penetration
Recent Examples on the WebMost gardens will require one to two inches of water penetration to maintain optimal health. James Fitzgerald, Popular Mechanics, 2 Aug. 2022 While many at-home versions exist, Dr. Doft recommends having your physician control the level of penetration—think half a millimeter to 2.5 millimeters. Janell M. Hickman, SELF, 27 July 2022 Previously one of the more prohibitive factors for widespread penetration of hearing augmentation devices, the financial cost associated with purchasing them is becoming lower with each passing year. Brian Crannell, Forbes, 2 May 2022 The report expects broadband connections in U.S. households will surpass 90% penetration reaching 122 million by year end, slowing growth rate. Brad Adgate, Forbes, 9 Aug. 2022 That’s triple the current online penetration rate of eight percent of internal commerce. Alex Salkever, Fortune, 2 Aug. 2022 By adjusting the energy of the protons coming out of an accelerator, a doctor can choose the penetration depth that will deliver them directly to a target. James Riordon, Scientific American, 29 July 2022 But the penetration rate in the Japanese market is still about half that of Europe and the United States. Billboard Japan, Billboard, 19 July 2022 With subscription penetration plateauing in North America and Europe, Japan represents an important growth territory for all global streaming platforms. Patrick Brzeski, The Hollywood Reporter, 18 July 2022 See More