Word
penetrating
Phoneticspen·e·trat·ing, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈpɛnəˌtɹeɪtɪŋ/
UK/pˈɛnɪtɹˌeɪtɪŋ/
Definition
adj. showing a deep and quick understanding of something. It can also describe a look or a sound that seems to go right through you.
adj. demonstrating keen insight or intellectual depth; alternatively, describing a physical sensation or sound that is sharp and piercing. Often used to describe a gaze or a voice that commands attention.
Examples
“She asked a penetrating question that made everyone think.”
“The detective gave the suspect a penetrating look that seemed to uncover every hidden secret.”
“His penetrating analysis of the economic crisis revealed structural flaws that most other experts had completely overlooked during the initial boom.”
Examples
simple
“She asked a penetrating question that made everyone think.”
contextual
“The detective gave the suspect a penetrating look that seemed to uncover every hidden secret.”
complex
“His penetrating analysis of the economic crisis revealed structural flaws that most other experts had completely overlooked during the initial boom.”
Usage
Often used to modify nouns related to the senses (look, gaze, voice) or the mind (insight, question, analysis).
Real-World Examples
“A Pulitzer finalist, Aviv has become known for rigorous, penetrating journalism that is as empathic as it is insightful.” “Additionally, drug-based gene switches can have undesirable adverse effects, while some stimuli, such as light, can make penetrating deeper tissues challenging.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990EikenEikenTest in Practical English ProficiencyThe English proficiency test from the Eiken Foundation of Japan, widely taken by Japanese students. Grades run from 5 to 1, with Pre-1 and Pre-2 between them.Grade 1
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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