Discerning
mediumdih-SURN-ing
adjective
Definition
Having or showing good judgment or understanding
Examples
“The discerning critic praised only the finest performances.”
“She has a discerning eye for quality in art.”
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Discerning is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "perceptive" or "astute" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "undiscriminating".
Related GRE Words
sagacious
Having or showing keen mental discernment and good judgment; wise
prudent
Acting with or showing care and thought for the future
shrewd
Having or showing sharp powers of judgment; astute
perceptive
Having or showing sensitive insight
acute
Having or showing a perceptive understanding or insight; sharp or severe
discreet
Careful and prudent in speech or action; not drawing attention
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