# acumen

/əkˈjumən/ (US) · /ˈækjuːmˌɛn/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/acumen
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

the ability to make good decisions and understand things quickly. You use this to describe someone who is very smart and good at their job.

For teachers: the ability to make sound judgments and exercise good discrimination. Often used in professional or technical contexts to describe a sharp mind or strategic insight.

## Examples

- She has a great business acumen.
- The company hired him for his sharp legal acumen and ability to navigate complex regulations.
- While technical skill is essential, the project's success ultimately depended on the team's strategic acumen and their ability to anticipate market shifts.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.