perspicacity

[pur-spi-kas-i-tee]

noun

1. keenness of mental perception and understanding; discernment; penetration.

   Synonyms: acumen, insight, astuteness, acuity, shrewdness
   Antonyms: obtuseness

2. Archaic.,  keen vision.

Word History and Origins

Origin of perspicacity¹

First recorded in 1540–50; earlier perspicacite, from Late Latin perspicācitās “sharpness of sight,” equivalent to perspicāci- (stem of perspicāx “sharp-sighted”; perspicuous ) + -tās -ty ²

Synonym Study

See perspicuity.

Example Sentences

The production, directed by Sam Gold, has been garnering a good deal of attention, not all of it to do with Ibsen’s political perspicacity.

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He’s a highly intelligent and accomplished executive; no one without his ability and perspicacity could have remained CEO of the nation’s largest bank company for 18 years and its chairman for 17.

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His reputation for perspicacity in matters financial lies in tatters.

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His book, which coincides with the 50th anniversary of its namesake album, colorfully narrates an oft-overlooked chapter in the band’s history with nuance, clarity and perspicacity.

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In place of firebrand feminism, the film emphasizes decency, perspicacity and rigor.

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