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 These and other insights have contributed to the alternate histories, produced with AI, in this article. —Theo Burman, MSNBC Newsweek, 13 July 2025 The new construction data will provide more insight into shelter cost inflation. —Zev Fima, CNBC, 13 July 2025 The panelists offered insight into the business side of the entertainment industry, and the responsibility to shape a more inclusive media environment. —Charlotte Observer, 12 July 2025 Citing authority vested by the U.S. Supreme Court, committee Chairman Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, said the documents requested – regarding communications with other universities – will give lawmakers insight into crafting legislative reforms. —Christen Smith, The Washington Examiner, 1 July 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
  • People listen more attentively to the vice president than the assistant, regardless of their wisdom.
    — Gamze Acar Bayraktaroglu, Forbes.com, 24 July 2025
  • There are many great cocktail books out there, penned by incredibly talented bartenders who are more than willing to share their wisdom.
    — Wilder Davies, Bon Appetit Magazine, 24 July 2025
Definition of wisdom
Noun
  • So are basic physics, the general understanding of human limitations, logic.
    — Megan Feringa, New York Times, 20 July 2025
  • For more than 30 years, Wolf Entertainment has shaped the public’s understanding of crime and punishment arguably more than any other cultural force.
    — John J. Lennon, Rolling Stone, 19 July 2025
Definition of understanding
Noun
  • The new price cap on Russian crude will remain flexible in line with market dynamics and will be set at just above 47 dollars per barrel at current market prices, according to four European officials who spoke to CNBC on the condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the topic.
    — Ruxandra Iordache, CNBC, 18 July 2025
  • The Justice Department has cited the need to protect the identities of victims and witnesses, along with the sensitivity of grand jury materials, as reasons for withholding additional evidence.
    — Gabe Whisnant, MSNBC Newsweek, 18 July 2025
Definition of sensitivity
Noun
  • At the same time, perceptions of coolness may vary across different age brackets.
    — Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 15 July 2025
  • In a video from the concert, Wonder pauses his show to speak to the audience about his personal life and how being blind has impacted his perception of the world around him.
    — EW.com, EW.com, 15 July 2025
Definition of perception
Noun
  • 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
Definition of discernment
Noun
  • Technology becomes an extension and augmentation of our intellect.
    — Nino Letteriello, Forbes.com, 18 July 2025
  • Hadar was known for his gentle character, sharp intellect and deep artistic talent.
    — Efrat Lachter, FOXNews.com, 14 July 2025
Definition of intellect
Noun
  • Within 3-6 years: Widespread artificial general intelligence (AGI) emerges, with machines rivaling our brightest minds across intellectual domains.
    — Arafat Kabir, Forbes.com, 23 July 2025
  • Trump also hinted on Tuesday that Obama could be prosecuted after the latter’s administration reportedly ignored intelligence community assessments suggesting that Russia wasn’t directly meddling in the 2016 election.
    — Ross O'Keefe, The Washington Examiner, 23 July 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 29 Jul. 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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