(JUHJ-muhnt), noun
A formed opinion; a decision made by objective deliberation; the capacity to judge.
glean (GLEEN). To discover or learn slowly and deliberately.
Jacob GLEANED from the drop in Ferrari sales that a looming recession even had some of his social contacts feeling nervous.
acumen (uh-CUE-men). Keenness of judgment; the ability to make quick, accurate decisions and evaluations; characterized by rapid discernment and insight.
After only two years as a restaurant owner, Clyde developed a remarkable business ACUMEN; in a supposedly “bad location,” he had little trouble coming up with promotions that attracted customers.
inference (IN-fer-ence). The process of reaching a logical conclusion by examining and analyzing the evidence.
Watson solved cases through INFERENCE, while Sherlock Holmes was seemingly gifted with flashes of brilliant insight.
noesis (no-EE-sis). The functioning of the intellect; the exercise of reason.
Researchers in the field of artificial intelligence dedicate much of their time to the study of human NOESIS.
osmosis (oz-MOW-sis). A subtle and effortless assimilation of ideas or influences.
Just hanging out with Bob, who was an A student, seemed to help Vincent improve his grades, as if he was learning what Bob knew through OSMOSIS.
rumination (roo-muh-NAY-shun). The act of thinking about something in great detail, weighing the pros and cons over and over in your mind.
For busy people under stress, RUMINATION after going to bed is a frequent contributor to insomnia.
sagacious (suh-GAY-shuss). Perceptive; showing sound judgment.
Brian is the perfect candidate for chairman of the board: experienced, patient, and SAGACIOUS enough to help us counter the threat from our competitor.
impolitic (im-PAWL-i-tick). Not prudent; injudicious; unwise.
After a few drinks, Uncle Roland has an unfortunate habit of making IMPOLITIC remarks about my father’s failed business ventures.
indiscreet (in-dih-SKREET). Lacking good judgment and prudence; apt to talk about things that others would like left private.
Don’t get alcohol near Melanie. It makes her go from prudent to INDISCREET in less than sixty seconds!
indiscriminate (in-dih-SKRIM-uh-net). Lacking clear judgment and careful distinction; haphazard; random.
The INDISCRIMINATE shelving of books made it almost impossible to do any successful browsing in the bookshop.
myopic (my-AHP-ick). Narrow-mindedness or short-sightedness in one’s views; lack of discernment.
Your MYOPIC views will win you few votes during the election, Senator.
promiscuity (prom-ih-SKYOO-ih-tee). Not restricted by type; indiscriminate; casual; irregular.
The comparatively tolerant attitude toward the PROMISCUITY of the late 1970s and early 1980s changed dramatically with the onset of the AIDS crisis.
See also: Knowledge, Learn, Think, Understanding