the ability to make good judgments and quick decisions typically in a particular domain
example
Her business acumen allowed her to navigate the challenges of the market with ease.
synonyms
insightsharpnessshrewdness
word origin — From Latin 'acumen', meaning 'sharpness' or 'point', derived from 'acuere', meaning 'to sharpen'.
acumen, bana, duress, harangue, emollient: meanings and examples
Learn these 5 words from GRE Vocabulary set 17. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.
acumen · noun/əˈkjumən/
the ability to make good judgments and quick decisions typically in a particular domain
Her business acumen allowed her to navigate the challenges of the market with ease.
Synonyms: insight, sharpness, shrewdness
Origin: From Latin 'acumen', meaning 'sharpness' or 'point', derived from 'acuere', meaning 'to sharpen'.
bana · noun/ˈbæn.ə/
a slang term for excessive or showy behavior that seeks attention
Her bana during the party drew all the attention to herself, leaving everyone else feeling overshadowed.
Synonyms: flaunt, ostentation, showboating
Origin: The term 'bana' is believed to have originated in contemporary slang, potentially derived from the phrase 'to banana' as in to 'peel back' or expose behavior for attention, drawing on the notion of bananas being bright and attention-grabbing.
duress · noun/duˈrɛs/
compulsion by force or threat that leads to an action or decision
The confession was obtained under duress, making it inadmissible in court.
Synonyms: coercion, pressure, compulsion
Origin: from Latin 'duressus,' meaning 'to force or compel'
harangue · noun/həˈræŋ/
a lengthy and aggressive speech or lecture
The politician launched into a lengthy harangue about the need for reform, captivating the audience with his fervor.
Synonyms: tirade, diatribe, rant
Origin: The word 'harangue' originates from the French word 'harangue,' which in turn comes from the Latin 'harangare,' meaning to address a crowd.
emollient · noun/ɪˈmɑlɪənt/
a substance that softens or soothes the skin
After a long day in the sun, she applied an emollient moisturizer to soothe her dry skin.
Synonyms: soothing agent, moisturizer, balm
Origin: from Latin 'emolliens', from 'emollire' meaning 'to soften'