noun

discernment

di-SURN-ment

Discernment (noun) means the ability to judge well — to see the difference between things and decide wisely between them. Example: “She chose the pieces with real discernment.”

noun

The ability to judge well — to see the difference between things and decide wisely between them.

"She chose the pieces with real discernment."

formal In Christian practice, seeking to understand what God is calling a person to do.

"A year of discernment before entering the order."

How to Use Discernment

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishBeing good at telling things apart and judging wisely.

Memory tip

Latin "to sift" — separating the good from the rest.

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Common pairings

a man of discernment spiritual discernment lacks discernment

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She chose the pieces with real _____.

Etymology

From Latin "discernere," to separate or distinguish, from "dis-" (apart) plus "cernere" (to sift).

Origin: Latin

Synonyms

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judgement insight perception acumen

Related Words

sense knowledge seeing opinion understanding intelligence vision assessment

Rhymes for discernment

government internment

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does discernment mean?

Good judgement — the ability to perceive differences clearly and choose well, especially where the right answer is not obvious.

What is spiritual discernment?

In Christian usage, the practice of prayer and reflection aimed at understanding what God is calling you to, particularly before a major decision such as ordination or religious life.

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