DISCERNMENT


Meaning of DISCERNMENT in English

transcription, транскрипция: [ di-ˈsərn-mənt, -ˈzərn- ]

noun

Date: 1586

1. : the quality of being able to grasp and comprehend what is obscure : skill in discerning

2. : an act of discerning

Synonyms:

discernment , discrimination , perception , penetration , insight , acumen 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

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

Merriam-Webster's Collegiate English vocabulary.      Энциклопедический словарь английского языка Merriam Webster.