discerning

American  

[dih-sur-ning, -zur-] / dɪˈsɜr nɪŋ, -ˈzɜr- /

adjective

1. showing good or outstanding judgment and understanding.

   a discerning critic of French poetry.

   Synonyms:

   discriminating, sharp, keen, perceptive

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discerning British  

/ dɪˈsɜːnɪŋ /

adjective

1. having or showing good taste or judgment; discriminating

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Usage

What does discerning mean? Discerning is an adjective that means able to discern—recognize small details, accurately tell the difference between similar things, and make intelligent judgements by using such observations.Discerning is also the continuous (-ing) form of the verb discern. As an adjective, it can be used to describe someone who has the ability to discern or to describe such an ability.The ability to do this or the process of doing it is called discernment, as in Only through careful discernment can you tell a genuine artifact from the work of a counterfeiter. Things that can be identified or distinguished in such a way can be described as discernible.A close synonym of discerning is discriminating (not in the prejudicial sense).Example: Most chefs have a very discerning sense of taste.

Other Word Forms

• discerningly adverb
• nondiscerning adjective
• undiscerning adjective
• undiscerningly adverb

Etymology

Origin of discerning

First recorded in 1600–10; discern + -ing ²

Example Sentences

After years of throwing money at any potential winners, Wall Street has grown much more discerning.

From The Wall Street Journal

But investors perhaps wanted bigger beats, especially as the AI trade has gotten more discerning.

From MarketWatch

But given the relatively broad-based nature of the selling, some believe discerning stock pickers might be able to find opportunities amid the chaos.

From MarketWatch

Chinese customers are “becoming much more demanding, discerning and differentiating when it comes to their choice of brands.”

From The Wall Street Journal

“The Kappe residence will resonate with discerning buyers who value architectural provenance, impeccable design and cultural importance — a rare opportunity to own an enduring piece of architectural history,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• astute
• insightful
• knowledgeable
• penetrating
• perceptive
• piercing