astute Play adjectiveHaving or showing an ability to accurately assess situations or people and turn this to one's advantage. SYNONYMS acutebrightbrilliantcannycleverdiscerningdiscriminatingincisiveingeniousinsightfulintelligentintuitivejudiciousmedia-savvypenetratingperceptiveperspicaciouspiercingquickquick-wittedrazor-sharpsagacioussharpsharp-wittedshrewdsmartwise