perspicacious
/ˌpɜː.spɪˈkeɪ.ʃəs/
Group 31Difficulty 3/3
Definition
- (adjective)
- Having a ready insight into and understanding of things; shrewd GRE
Example in Context
The perspicacious analyst predicted the market downturn weeks before it materialized, repositioning her clients' portfolios to minimize losses.
Synonyms
perceptivesharpinsightful
Etymology
Having keen insight — someone who can see through to the truth.
- perspicere (Latin) — to look through
Memory Aid
🕵️Sounds like “purse-pick-acious”
A detective who can pick the perfect purse for clues — he's PERSPICACIOUS!
Visual Association
🔍A sharp-eyed investigator spotting a hidden clue under a pile of clutter.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “perspicacious” mean on the GRE?
perspicacious (adjective) means “Having a ready insight into and understanding of things; shrewd”. The perspicacious analyst predicted the market downturn weeks before it materialized, repositioning her clients' portfolios to minimize losses.
How to remember “perspicacious” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “perspicacious” sounds like “purse-pick-acious”. A detective who can pick the perfect purse for clues — he's PERSPICACIOUS!
What are synonyms for “perspicacious”?
Common synonyms: perceptive, sharp, insightful.