perception

noun

pər-ˈsep-shən How to pronounce perception (audio)
Definition of perceptionnext
1
as in insight
the ability to understand inner qualities or relationships a writer of considerable perception, she remembers how it feels to be confused and insecure

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in understanding
the knowledge gained from the process of coming to know or understand something a growing perception of the enormity of the problem

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun perception differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of perception are acumen, discernment, discrimination, insight, and penetration. While all these words mean "a power to see what is not evident to the average mind," perception implies quick and often sympathetic discernment (as of shades of feeling).

a novelist of keen perception into human motives

Where would acumen be a reasonable alternative to perception?

The synonyms acumen and perception are sometimes interchangeable, but acumen implies characteristic penetration combined with keen practical judgment.

a director of reliable box-office acumen

When is it sensible to use discernment instead of perception?

While the synonyms discernment and perception are close in meaning, discernment stresses accuracy (as in reading character or motives or appreciating art).

the discernment to know true friends

When could discrimination be used to replace perception?

Although the words discrimination and perception have much in common, discrimination stresses the power to distinguish and select what is true or appropriate or excellent.

the discrimination that develops through listening to a lot of great music

When might insight be a better fit than perception?

In some situations, the words insight and perception are roughly equivalent. However, insight suggests depth of discernment coupled with understanding sympathy.

a documentary providing insight into the plight of the homeless

When is penetration a more appropriate choice than perception?

The words penetration and perception are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, penetration implies a searching mind that goes beyond what is obvious or superficial.

lacks the penetration to see the scorn beneath their friendly smiles

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of perception Richard Sandoval, a renowned Mexican chef, challenged the perception of Mexican food in the United States with his upscale restaurant, Maya. Sandoval's use of high-quality ingredients and innovative techniques paved the way for a modern Mexican food movement. —Mackensy Lunsford, The Tennessean, 2 July 2025 Is our perception of life akin to the passing of the sand from the top or the accumulation of sand at the bottom? —Walt Shelton, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025 Advertisement Advertisement Such perceptions are dangerous. —Time, 1 July 2025 The concert raised over £114 million but has also since faced criticism regarding perceptions of African nations and aid distribution. —Jessica Lynch, Billboard, 23 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for perception
Recent Examples of Synonyms for perception
  1. insight
  2. understanding
  3. sensitivity
  4. appreciation
Noun
  • Women’s Sports will also feature networking opportunities and exclusive insights into the tools and platforms transforming the women’s sports industry.
    — Sportico Staff, Sportico.com, 14 July 2025
  • Here are some insights regarding one-day (1D) post-earnings returns: There have been 20 earnings data points recorded over the last five years, with 10 positive and 10 negative one-day (1D) returns observed.
    — Trefis Team, Forbes.com, 14 July 2025
Definition of insight
Noun
  • And since then, the North Koreans have gained crucial battlefield experience and understanding of how to engage in electronic warfare.
    — Natasha Lindstaedt, Forbes.com, 7 July 2025
  • Our sight has to be informed with a broader understanding of context, history, and the individual.
    — Will Potter July 7, Literary Hub, 7 July 2025
Definition of understanding
Noun
  • While investors should remain aware of the substantial debt and historical sensitivity to market downturns, the long-term prospects for Jazz Pharmaceuticals seem positive for those with a 3-5 year investment horizon.
    — Trefis Team, Forbes.com, 7 July 2025
  • Months later, with no reference to the test, teens who scored highest in the traits of impulsiveness, sensation-seeking, hopelessness or sensitivity to anxiety were invited to participate in two 90-minute workshops.
    — Maia Szalavitz, Scientific American, 7 July 2025
Definition of sensitivity
Noun
  • First, exhibit appreciation for and an interest in others’ abilities, skills, knowledge and perspectives.
    — Susan Madsen, Forbes.com, 11 July 2025
  • And there’s this deep appreciation for culture and the way these countries developed, especially as an outsider looking at the United States.
    — Seth Abramovitch, HollywoodReporter, 11 July 2025
Definition of appreciation

Phrases Containing perception

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perceptibly
perception
perceptions
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Cite this Entry

“Perception.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/perception. Accessed 19 Jul. 2025.

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More from Merriam-Webster on perception

Nglish: Translation of perception for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about perception

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