astute

[uh-stoot, uh-styoot]

adjective

1. keenly perceptive or discerning; sagacious.

   an astute analysis.

   Synonyms: perceptive, quick, smart

2. shrewd; cunning.

   an astute merchandising program;

   an astute manipulation of facts.

   Synonyms: sly, wily, crafty, artful

astute

/ əˈstjuːt /

adjective

1. having insight or acumen; perceptive; shrewd

Other Word Forms

• astutely adverb
• astuteness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of astute¹

First recorded in 1605–15; from Latin astūtus “shrewd, sly, cunning,” equivalent to astū- (stem of astus ) “cleverness” + -tus adjective suffix

Word History and Origins

Origin of astute¹

C17: from Latin astūtus cunning, from astus (n) cleverness

Example Sentences

Many of her insights are astute, though occasionally tinged with rancor.

From Los Angeles Times

Lepore’s astute in her discussion of maverick Columbia professor Charles Austin Beard, whose “An Economic Interpretation of the Constitution,” published in 1913, sparked controversy.

From Los Angeles Times

Expect a similarly powerful forward pack, with some quicksilver runners and astute playmakers in the backline.

From BBC

As with their summer, this will be another season of stability for Fulham under the tactically astute Silva.

From BBC

He was handed the captaincy of the Proteas in 1994 and his astute tactics and calm assurance gave him a statesmanlike air as he turned the team into a formidable international side.

From BBC

Related Words

• adroit 
• canny 
• crafty 
• discerning 
• insightful 
• intelligent 
• keen 
• shrewd