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acumen

noun/əˈkjumən/

definition

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'.

GRE Vocabulary — Set 17

Set 17 of GRE Vocabulary covers 5 words: acumen, bana, duress, harangue, emollient. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

  1. 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'.

  2. 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.

  3. 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'

  4. 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.

  5. 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'