Definitions

perceptive

[per-sep-tiv] / pərˈsɛp tɪv /

ADJECTIVE

alert, sensitive

Synonyms

STRONGEST

astute discerning discreet incisive insightful intuitive knowing knowledgeable observant penetrating wise

WEAK

acute awake aware brainy conscious ear to the ground gnostic insighted judicious keen knows what's what penetrative percipient perspicacious quick rational responsive sagacious sage savvy sharp sophic tuned-in wise to

Antonyms

STRONGEST

careless foolish idiotic ignorant stupid thoughtless unaware undiscerning unintelligent

WEAK

dense insensitive unobservant

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.

They love deeply, and they are uncommonly perceptive.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 22, 2026

Unburdened by the contemporary setting that sometimes trips up a filmmaker’s boldest ideas, Mona Fastvold’s “The Testament of Ann Lee” is perhaps the year’s most extraordinarily perceptive film.

From Salon • Dec. 5, 2025

For elements that they share, both two very intelligent, bright, sharp, perceptive people who seemingly have gone through similar trauma in their own lives, they are different.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 13, 2025

In a perceptive statement, Fed governor Stephen Miran stressed on Oct.

From MarketWatch • Oct. 11, 2025

Tochi had always been perceptive and thoughtful; it was Tochi who had intervened with calm reason whenever Ifemelu and Ranyinudo argued in secondary school.

From "Americanah" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Vocabulary lists containing perceptive

ACT Reading Test: Words to Capture Tone, List 1

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The SAT: Words to Capture Tone, List 5

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The New SAT: Words to Capture Tone

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!