acumen
/əˈkjuːmən/
Group 10Difficulty 2/3
Definition
- (noun)
- The ability to make good judgments and quick decisions, typically in a particular domain GRE
Example in Context
The investor's business acumen allowed her to identify promising ventures that others had overlooked or dismissed as too risky.
Synonyms
sharpnessinsightcleverness
Etymology
Being sharp-minded leads to quick and good judgments.
- acu- (Latin) — sharp
Memory Aid
🕴️Sounds like “a cue man”
The A CUE MAN in a suit makes sharp decisions at a poker game with his acumen!
Visual Association
🧠A brain with a lightbulb above it, indicating sharp thoughts and smart decisions.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “acumen” mean on the GRE?
acumen (noun) means “The ability to make good judgments and quick decisions, typically in a particular domain”. The investor's business acumen allowed her to identify promising ventures that others had overlooked or dismissed as too risky.
How to remember “acumen” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “acumen” sounds like “a cue man”. The A CUE MAN in a suit makes sharp decisions at a poker game with his acumen!
What are synonyms for “acumen”?
Common synonyms: sharpness, insight, cleverness.