What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
insightful
Example
The professor's lecture was very insightful and gave us a new perspective on the topic. [insightful: adjective]
Example
She made an insightful comment about the character's motivations in the novel. [insightful: adjective]
perceptive
Example
He is a perceptive detective who can pick up on small details that others might miss. [perceptive: adjective]
Example
Her perceptive analysis of the political situation was highly praised by her colleagues. [perceptive: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Perceptive is slightly less common than insightful in everyday language, but both words are positive adjectives that indicate a desirable quality in a person or work.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between insightful and perceptive?
Both insightful and perceptive are formal words that are appropriate for use in academic or professional contexts.
