acumen
Exam frequency
GRE
high
Banks
high
Civil Services
high
Meaning(s)
the ability to think quickly and make good decisions
How to Memorize
acumen - judgement
Analysis
If you have ‘acumen’ then you have the necessary powers of perception to accurately evaluate a situation, coupled with the ability to make fast but astute decisions. This formal word has only positive connotations as people with acumen tend to be successful and well-respected by others, particularly in the field of business or politics.
| Exams | Spoken | Other | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Synonyms | shrewdness | ||
| Antonyms | ineptness,mindlessness |
Example(s)
The entrepreneur has had great success since he launched his company. His business acumen is extraordinary.
I’m not voting for that politician. I just don’t feel he has the necessary acumen to guide the country through these difficult times.
Danielle’s commercial acumen makes her an invaluable asset to this company. She always seems to make the right decisions, even under intense pressure.