astute

What does “astute” mean?

adjective.having or showing an ability to accurately assess situations or people and turn this to one's advantage.

SAT Usage

This term is often found in contexts related to business, politics, or personal relationships, highlighting characters who navigate complex situations successfully. It emphasizes not just intelligence, but also a keen perception and strategic thinking, distinguishing it from similar words like "shrewd," which may carry a more negative connotation.

Common Confusions

Astute implies a clever and perceptive ability to navigate situations for advantage, while shrewd usually suggests a cunning or manipulative approach that may lack ethical considerations.

Example Sentences

• The astute investor recognized the opportunity before others.

• His astute observation revealed the flaw in the argument that others had missed.