# perceptive

/pɝˈsɛptɪv/ (US) · /pəsˈɛptɪv/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/perceptive
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

having the ability to notice small details or understand things quickly. You use this to describe someone who is very smart and good at seeing the truth.

For teachers: having or showing the ability to notice or understand things quickly and accurately. Often describes a person's keen insight or a keen eye for detail.

## Examples

- She is a very perceptive student who notices small mistakes.
- The manager is perceptive enough to realize that the team is struggling with the new software.
- A perceptive observer might notice that the subtle changes in the landscape suggest a much older history than the official records indicate.

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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.