Definition
The ability to think clearly and make good decisions, especially in a particular area or field of expertise.
Pronunciation
US English
UK English
Part of Speech
Noun.
Synonyms
Insight, shrewdness, astuteness, perceptiveness, sagacity, discernment, intelligence, wisdom, expertise, skill.
Antonyms
Incompetence, foolishness, ignorance, stupidity, ineptitude, dullness.
Word Forms
| Part of Speech | Words |
|---|---|
| Noun | acumens, acumen |
| Verb | acuminates, acuminating, acuminate, acuminated |
| Adjective | acuminate |
| Adverb | None |
Example Sentences
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His business acumen is the reason why he was able to turn a small startup into a multi-million dollar company.
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She has a remarkable acumen for languages and can easily switch between four different languages.
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His financial acumen allowed him to make smart investments that ensured a comfortable retirement.
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The company hired her for her technical acumen in software engineering.
Usage
The word “acumen” is a noun that refers to the ability to think clearly and make good decisions, especially in a particular area or field of expertise. It is often used to describe a person’s intelligence, expertise, and quick-wittedness in a specific field. For example, someone with good business acumen would have a strong ability to make good decisions regarding investments, finances, and other business matters. Someone with good technical acumen would have a strong ability to understand and solve technical problems.
The word “acumen” comes from the Latin word “acuere,” which means “to sharpen.” This root can be seen in related words such as “acupuncture” (the practice of inserting fine needles into the skin to relieve pain or treat various health conditions) and “acuity” (sharpness or keenness of perception or vision).
There are also related words that use prefixes or suffixes to modify the meaning of “acumen.” For example, “circumspection” combines the prefix “circum-” (meaning “around”) with “acumen” to create a word meaning “careful consideration of all circumstances before acting.” “Acumenical” uses the suffix “-ical” (meaning “related to” or “of the nature of”) to describe something as being related to or embodying acumen.