Acuteness: meaning, definitions and examples

Acuteness is best used to describe intense situations, pains, or states of sensitivity. It can also describe critical situations that need immediate attention.

• The acuteness of his pain made it difficult for him to move.
• She felt an acuteness in her awareness of the dangers around her.

Sharpness can describe both literal and figurative clarity. It often refers to the edge or clarity of objects, minds, or senses. Depending on context, it can have a negative connotation, implying harshness.

• The sharpness of the blade was unmatched.
• He responded with a sharpness in his tone that surprised everyone.

Keenness is often used to describe sharp or eager interest, enthusiasm, or perception. It can refer to both mental and emotional states.

• She has a keenness for solving complex puzzles.
• His keenness to learn new languages is impressive.

Perceptiveness is most fitting when talking about someone's ability to understand things quickly and accurately. It highlights awareness and insight.

• Her perceptiveness allowed her to understand the underlying issues quickly.
• The teacher's perceptiveness helped them recognize the student's needs.

Astuteness is suitable for situations where someone shows sharp judgment, cleverness, or skill in understanding and dealing with situations or people.

• Her astuteness in business negotiations is well-known.
• He demonstrated great astuteness by predicting the market trends.

Describes intense or severe conditions or sensations, often related to pain, illness, or situations requiring quick thinking.

• The acuteness of his pain made it difficult for him to concentrate.
• Her acuteness of perception allowed her to notice details others missed.

Describes the quality of being clear and distinct, or capable of cutting or penetrating. Can be used figuratively to talk about intelligence or clarity of thought.

• The sharpness of the knife made it easy to cut through the vegetables.
• Her sharpness in debate often left her opponents at a loss for words.

Refers to the capacity to detect or respond to slight changes, signals, or feelings. Can be used to describe emotional responsiveness or physical sensation.

• His sensitivity to criticism made him very cautious about his work.
• The sensor’s sensitivity to light is necessary for accurate readings.

Indicates eagerness, enthusiasm, or perceptiveness. Often used to describe a strong desire or interest as well as sharpness in perception or intellect.

• His keenness for learning new languages is impressive.
• She showed keenness in her observations during the experiment.

Typically used to describe the degree of something precise, ranging from physical sensations to intellectual abilities.

• The acuteness of her hearing allowed her to notice even the faintest sounds.
• His acuteness in solving complex problems is remarkable.

Typically implies something extreme or harsh, often used in a negative sense.

• The severity of the punishment shocked everyone.
• Doctors were concerned about the severity of his injuries.

Often used to describe something with a high degree of force, concentration, or feeling, particularly in emotions or light.

• The intensity of the storm frightened everyone.
• She spoke with great intensity about her passion for music.

Can describe a physical quality (like a blade), a sensation (like pain), or mental acuity.

• The sharpness of the knife made it easy to cut through the vegetables.
• She admired the sharpness of his wit during debates.

Used to convey eagerness or enthusiasm, often related to mental sharpness or interest.

• His keenness to learn new languages impressed his teachers.
• There was a keenness in her voice that showed her excitement.