insight

noun

ˈin-ˌsīt How to pronounce insight (audio)
Definition of insightnext
as in wisdom
the ability to understand inner qualities or relationships a therapist with real insight into people's personalities

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun insight differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of insight are acumen, discernment, discrimination, penetration, and perception. While all these words mean "a power to see what is not evident to the average mind," insight suggests depth of discernment coupled with understanding sympathy.

a documentary providing insight into the plight of the homeless

When is acumen a more appropriate choice than insight?

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

a director of reliable box-office acumen

Where would discernment be a reasonable alternative to insight?

Although the words discernment and insight have much in common, discernment stresses accuracy (as in reading character or motives or appreciating art).

the discernment to know true friends

When could discrimination be used to replace insight?

In some situations, the words discrimination and insight are roughly equivalent. However, 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 would penetration be a good substitute for insight?

The words penetration and insight 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 can perception be used instead of insight?

While the synonyms perception and insight 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 insight Get insights into theater, music, movies, art and museums in the Queen City with our weekly Inside Charlotte Arts newsletter. —Liz Rothaus Bertrand, Charlotte Observer, 28 May 2025 Your brilliance shines when your language is grounded and your insights are shared with care. —Colin Bedell, Them., 28 May 2025 The accompanying tool kit, developed in collaboration with Woolmark’s global network of textile experts, provides in-depth insights into wool’s performance in denim applications, offering guidance on fiber selection, fabric construction, finishing techniques, and sustainability practices. —Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 28 May 2025 Scholars and journalist have tried to glean insight into his thinking by reading his speeches and writings and going through archival tape. —Emily Feng, NPR, 28 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for insight
Recent Examples of Synonyms for insight
  1. wisdom
  2. understanding
  3. sensitivity
  4. perception
  5. discernment
  6. intellect
  7. intelligence
  8. sagacity
Noun
  • Meanwhile, the voters’ wisdom in trying to check pension costs has been repeatedly confirmed.
    — U T Editorial Board, San Diego Union-Tribune, 23 May 2025
  • Still, Stuy pitches adoptees on the wisdom of testing.
    — Barbara Demick, New Yorker, 23 May 2025
Definition of wisdom
Noun
  • And the clear understanding on the part of Spielberg of what Stanley Kubrick used to call the submersible units of narrative.
    — Mike Fleming Jr, Deadline, 20 May 2025
  • Without mutual understanding, both can feel unseen or misunderstood.
    — Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 20 May 2025
Definition of understanding
Noun
  • Common effects include nausea, vomiting and extreme sensitivity to light and sound.
    — Peter Burke, FOXNews.com, 19 May 2025
  • In one analysis, participants who slept less than six hours for several nights experienced hormonal changes that increased appetite, decreased insulin sensitivity and elevated cortisol levels (the stress hormone that, in excess, can impair immunity and gut function).
    — Ximena Araya-Fischel, Forbes.com, 19 May 2025
Definition of sensitivity
Noun
  • However, two-thirds of Americans recognize that being a K-12 teacher is harder than most jobs, indicating a perception gap between the two groups.
    — Bruno V. Manno, Forbes.com, 18 May 2025
  • Neither is true — and this confusion illustrates California’s perception problem, even among filmmakers who would like to shoot there.
    — Aaron Couch, HollywoodReporter, 17 May 2025
Definition of perception
Noun
  • Use your discernment — not every vibe is worthy of your investment.
    — Valerie Mesa, People.com, 20 May 2025
  • Dent suggests that teaching your children about appropriate behaviors and discernment can prove beneficial in future circumstances.
    — Jazmin Towe, Parents, 9 May 2025
Definition of discernment
Noun
  • Along with interactivity, embodied experiences become multi-sensory that bypass the intellect and speak to the heart, connecting facts to emotions and emotions to lasting action.
    — Victoria Bousis, Rolling Stone, 22 May 2025
  • Season 2 has robbed Ellie of her agency, her rage, her competency, her intellect.
    — Erik Kain, Forbes.com, 20 May 2025
Definition of intellect
Noun
  • The group is a terrorist organization made up of operatives, spies and intelligence officials from agencies around the world who want to create a new world order.
    — Keith Langston, People.com, 24 May 2025
  • According to a new assessment from no fewer than 11 countries’ intelligence agencies, the hacker group has been targeting a broad array of technology and logistics firms involved in providing aid to Ukraine.
    — Andy Greenberg, Wired News, 24 May 2025
Definition of intelligence
Noun
  • According to the lore, this magical juice bestowed strength and sagacity upon all those who imbibed it.
    — Brad Japhe, Forbes.com, 30 Apr. 2025
  • But carry a big stick, in the form of astute sagacity.
    — ESSENCE Editors, Essence, 17 Apr. 2025
Definition of sagacity

Browse Nearby Words

insidiousness
insight
insightful
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Insight.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/insight. Accessed 2 Jun. 2025.

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More from Merriam-Webster on insight

Nglish: Translation of insight for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about insight

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