discerning
showing good judgment and keen insight
Word origin: From Latin discernere, to separate or distinguish.
Discerning in a sentence
Here are example sentences showing discerning in a sentence.
A discerning reader will notice the subtle shift in the narrator's tone.
A discerning critic can distinguish genuine innovation from mere novelty.
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Verbal · Text Completion
Critics initially dismissed the composer's late works as merely blank, but later scholars recognized in them a deliberate restraint that concealed considerable technical sophistication.
Using “discerning” well
Discerning describes keen judgment and the ability to perceive fine distinctions, pairing with perceptive and astute. It is a compliment, implying refined insight rather than mere intelligence.
More GRE words starting with D
to engage in something superficially or as a casual pastime
a raised platform for speakers or honored guests
to waste time or act without urgency
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to move slowly or waste time idly
a scarcity or shortage of something
Questions about “discerning”
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