acumen

Definition

Quickness of perception or discernment; penetration of mind; the faculty of nice discrimination; acuity of mind.

Etymology

Borrowed from Latin acūmen (“sharp point”).

Example Sentences

• ""I am going to ask you a question that does not require much legal acumen to answer," said Lord Meersbrook to his attorney, when he called the next day in Lincoln's Inn;..."
• "Sunning himself on the board steps, I saw for the first time Mr. Farquhar Fenelon Cooke.[…]A silver snaffle on a heavy leather watch guard which connected the pockets of his corduroy waistcoat, together with a huge gold stirrup in his Ascot tie, sufficiently proclaimed his tastes.[…]But withal there was a perceptible acumen about the man which was puzzling in the extreme."
• "No, no, my dear Watson! With all respect for your natural acumen, I do not think that you are quite a match for the worthy doctor."