perceptive
UK: pəˈsɛptɪv | US: pərˈsɛptɪv
adj. having or showing keen insight, understanding, or intuition
adj. capable of perceiving or observing subtle details
The word "perceptive" derives from Latin percipere (to seize entirely, understand), combining per- (through) and capere (to take). The morpheme cept (from capere) evolved into English as a root meaning "to grasp" or "to comprehend," while -ive denotes an adjective form. Over time, "perceptive" shifted from literal "taking in" to figurative "mental grasping," emphasizing sharp observation or insight.
She is highly perceptive and notices even the slightest changes in mood.
His perceptive analysis of the novel revealed hidden themes.
A perceptive reader will detect the author’s subtle irony.
The therapist’s perceptive questions helped uncover deep-seated issues.
Children can be surprisingly perceptive about adult emotions.