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discerning

IPA

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Dictionary definition of discerning

Having or showing good insight and careful judgement, especially about matters of taste or quality.
"The upscale establishment appealed to the more affluent and discerning customers."

Detailed meaning of discerning

It is the ability to perceive and understand things clearly, and to be able to distinguish between different options or alternatives. Discerning individuals are often able to see through superficial appearances or propaganda, and are able to make thoughtful and well-considered choices based on a deep understanding of the situation. Discerning can also refer to having good taste or a refined sense of aesthetics.

Example sentences containing discerning

1. She is a wine connoisseur well-known for her discerning palate.
2. She was a discerning shopper who loved to find a bargain.
3. She was a discerning critic, able to identify the strengths and weaknesses of each performance.
4. He had a discerning eye for detail, and was able to spot even the smallest mistakes.
5. The discerning investor was able to make wise choices, thanks to her careful research and analysis.
6. The discerning palate could tell the difference between a high-quality wine and a cheaper one.

History and etymology of discerning

The adjective 'discerning' has its etymological roots in the Latin word 'discernere,' which combines 'dis-' (meaning 'apart') and 'cernere' (meaning 'to separate' or 'to distinguish'). In its original Latin sense, 'discernere' referred to the act of distinguishing or differentiating between things, often with precision. As the word transitioned into Middle English and later into modern English, it retained this essential meaning of perceiving distinctions and making careful judgments. Thus, 'discerning' characterizes individuals who have or show good insight and careful judgment, particularly in matters of taste or quality, as they are adept at separating and distinguishing finer details and nuances that may elude others. The etymology of 'discerning' underscores its connection to the act of keenly recognizing and appreciating distinctions.

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Further usage examples of discerning

1. The discerning shopper was able to find the best deals by comparing prices and features.
2. She had a discerning mind, able to see through the propaganda and make informed decisions.
3. He was known for his discerning taste in art, always seeking out the most interesting and innovative pieces.
4. The discerning judge was able to see through the defendant's lies and reach a fair verdict.
5. She was a discerning reader, able to discern the hidden meanings in a text.
6. The discerning listener was able to pick up on the subtle nuances in the music.
7. He was a discerning buyer, willing to pay more for high-quality products.
8. The discerning traveler was able to find the best restaurants and hotels by doing thorough research.
9. She was known for her discerning eye, able to spot a fake designer bag from a mile away.
10. He was a discerning collector, always seeking out the rarest and most valuable items.
11. The discerning chef was able to select the freshest ingredients, resulting in delicious meals.
12. He was a discerning antique dealer with a keen eye for detail.
13. The discerning critic praised the film's nuanced performances.
14. Her discerning palate could distinguish the finest wines.
15. A discerning eye for art made her a renowned collector.
16. The discerning shopper sought out high-quality products.
17. The discerning reader appreciated the author's clever wordplay.
18. His discerning taste in music spanned across various genres.
19. The discerning architect designed a striking, innovative building.
20. The discerning teacher recognized each student's unique potential.
21. A discerning customer values both price and product quality.
22. The discerning traveler sought authentic cultural experiences.
23. The discerning investor analyzed the stock market meticulously.
24. A discerning leader knows when to delegate and when to take charge.

perceptive, unobservant, indiscriminate, undiscerning

Scientific and Methodical, Choices and Decisions, Clarity and Candor, Perception and Perspicacity, Decision and Discretion, Judgement and Decision-Making

astute,critical,insightful,knowledgeable,perceptive,prudent,shrewd

eb68db_00f9a3e1583f4eef916921e825431450.mp3

discriminating,wise

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