Astute: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is often used to describe someone who is very good at understanding situations and making good decisions, especially in a business or political context.

• She made an astute observation about the company's finances.
• His astute leadership helped the team achieve their goals.

Typically used to describe someone who is clever and has good judgement, especially in practical matters or when making decisions that benefit them, often implying an element of cunning.

• He is a shrewd businessman who always makes profitable deals.
• Her shrewd tactics earned her a quick promotion.

Commonly used to describe someone who is quick-witted and intelligent, often with an ability to notice and respond to things quickly. It can sometimes have a slightly aggressive or critical connotation.

• She has a very sharp mind.
• His sharp retort shut down the argument.

Often used in everyday conversation to describe someone who is quick to understand, learn, and devise or apply ideas.

• She came up with a clever solution to the problem.
• He's incredibly clever and always has the best suggestions.

Describes someone who is very good at noticing and understanding things, often beyond what is obvious, useful in social contexts or when describing someone’s ability to understand people's emotions.

• Her perceptive comments always hit the mark.
• He’s very perceptive about his friends' feelings.

Used to describe someone who is clever and able to understand situations or people quickly and well, often for personal advantage.

• She made an astute business decision that earned her company millions

This term is often used to describe a sharp intellect or ability to notice and understand things quickly. It can also describe strong interest or enthusiasm.

• His keen observation skills allowed him to identify the flaw in the experiment

Used to describe someone who shows good judgment and understanding, especially in recognizing fine distinctions or subtle qualities.

• He has a discerning eye for art and always selects the best pieces for his collection

Appropriate for describing someone who has a deep understanding of a complex situation or topic.

• Her insightful comments during the meeting helped the team find a new approach to the problem

Used to describe someone who has gained knowledge, experience, and good judgment, often over a long period.

• The elderly woman gave wise advice to the young couple about marriage