noun
insight
A clear understanding of something, especially an underlying cause or meaning.
Her experience gives her insight into why customers change their minds.
Etymology
The compound pictures seeing into something. Mental understanding is treated as inward sight that reveals causes or meanings beneath the visible surface.
More examples
- The diary offers insight into his reasons for leaving.
- Talking with other parents gave me new insights into my daughter's behavior.
- His key insight was that fear, not laziness, caused the delays.
Forms
insight · insights
insightful adjective — Showing clear understanding of underlying causes or meanings.
Similar words
- understanding
- Broader comprehension, not necessarily recognition of an underlying cause.
- discernment
- Emphasizes judging subtle differences rather than grasping underlying explanations.