What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
discernment
Example
Her discernment in choosing the right candidate for the job was impressive. [discernment: noun]
Example
With his keen discernment, he was able to detect the slightest change in her mood. [discernment: adjective]
acumen
Example
His business acumen helped him to turn the company around and make it profitable. [acumen: noun]
Example
She demonstrated her financial acumen by making wise investments that yielded high returns. [acumen: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Discernment is more commonly used than acumen in everyday language. Discernment is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while acumen is less common and more formal, typically used in professional or business contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between discernment and acumen?
Acumen is generally considered more formal than discernment. It is often used in professional or business contexts to describe a high level of expertise or skill in a particular field.
