penetrating
8 synonyms and 1 antonym for penetrating, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Able to pierce through something, or (of a look, remark, or mind) sharply perceptive.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use penetrating
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
penetrating gaze
penetrating insight
penetrating cold
Frequently asked questions
What does “penetrating” mean?
The word “penetrating” means able to pierce through something, or (of a look, remark, or mind) sharply perceptive. In plain terms, sharp and piercing — whether physically (a cold wind), or mentally (a perceptive comment or look).
How do you pronounce “penetrating”?
“Penetrating” is pronounced PEH-niht-ray-tihng (/ˈpɛnɪtɹeɪtɪŋ/ in IPA).
How do you use “penetrating” in a sentence?
Here is “penetrating” used in a sentence: “She gave him a penetrating stare that made him uneasy.”
What part of speech is “penetrating”?
“Penetrating” is an adjective.
Is “penetrating” a common word?
“Penetrating” is an uncommon word in modern English.
