CultureAugust 24, 2026
discernment
di-ZURN-ment
Definition
The ability to judge well, understand deeply, or perceive truth and reality accurately, especially regarding complex or subtle matters of human character.
Etymology
Derived from the Latin 'discernere,' meaning 'to separate, set apart, or distinguish.' It entered English through Old French, carrying the sense of being able to perceive or distinguish between things clearly.
In the news
In the article, the author uses the term to describe the moment a heroine moves from ignorance to a clear, intelligent understanding of herself and others, which is the culmination of her character growth.
Seeing People Clearly: Lessons from Jane Austen
Read the full article ↗The Objective Standard