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noun

sagacity

/səˈɡæsɪti/  ·  say it: suh·GAS·uh·tee

keen mental discernment; wisdom

In Nuance & Precision

In more detail

the quality of being wise and having good judgment; the ability to understand things clearly and make smart decisions

Examples

How to use sagacity

Sagacity is a formal, literary term denoting deep wisdom and penetrating judgment, particularly in complex or difficult matters. It implies not just intelligence but a mature, reflective understanding developed through experience or careful analysis. It is less commonly used in everyday speech and more often appears in literary, philosophical, or academic contexts.

Register: formal

Common phrases

Synonyms

wisdom · discernment · insight · acumen · shrewdness

Opposites

foolishness · stupidity

Word family

sagacious (adjective) · sagaciously (adverb)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse sagacity with mere intelligence or cleverness; sagacity specifically emphasizes sound judgment and understanding rather than quick thinking or technical skill.

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