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Definitions

discerning

[dih-sur-ning, -zur-] / dɪˈsɜr nɪŋ, -ˈzɜr- /
ADJECTIVE
discriminating
Synonyms
STRONGEST
astute insightful knowledgeable penetrating perceptive piercing
STRONG
knowing
WEAK
acute bright brilliant clear-sighted clever critical gnostic ingenious insighted intelligent judicious percipient perspicacious sagacious sage sensitive sharp shrewd subtle wise
Antonyms
STRONGEST
idiotic ignorant stupid unaware unintelligent
WEAK
disregardful neglectful negligent overlooking undiscerning undiscriminating

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“We continue discerning with our Order where to live our Cistercian monastic life, keeping you informed as this process unfolds,” they said.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 24, 2026

Melodrama doesn’t exactly have the most sterling reputation for discerning cinema viewers.

From Salon • Mar. 19, 2026

Are students taught to be discerning about what information is credible?

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 14, 2026

The software market is now discerning which companies can withstand AI disruption.

From Barron's • Mar. 13, 2026

Chandresh watches the crowd, discerning how people decide which tents to enter.

From "The Night Circus" by Erin Morgenstern

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.