insight

in-sight · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    The capacity to understand the true nature of something; deep understanding.

  2. 2.

    A clear and deep understanding of a complex situation or problem.

  3. 3.

    (psychology) Awareness of one's own mental processes or condition.

Forms

plural: insights

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    gain insight — to develop understanding
  • •
    provide insight into — to illuminate or explain something
  • •
    flash of insight — a sudden moment of understanding

Related words

Antonyms: blindness, confusion, ignorance
See also: perception, understanding, wisdom
Synonyms: awareness, perception, understanding

Etymology

From Middle English insihte, a compound of in ("in, into") + sight ("vision, understanding"). The word originally meant "inner sight" or the ability to see with the mind rather than the eyes.