Synonyms for

Penetrating

Verb / ˈpenʌˌtreɪtɪŋ / Another word for penetrating — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

able to make a way through or into something

Synonyms & similar words

dawn incisive click sinkin bottom penetrative getthrough fathom piercing comehome penetrate knifelike acute discriminating sharp pervade keen riddle getacross diffuse perforate infiltrate fallintoplace permeate imbue piercing sharp keen intense acrid biting burning cutting acidic caustic incisive insightful probing searching penetrative pervasive profound far-reaching wide-reaching comprehensive

Synonyms by register

Formal

perceptive insightful acute discerning

Informal

sharp keen on the ball

Literary

piercing searching penetrant

Antonyms

superficial shallow unimportant trivial vague imprecise blunt

Common collocations

  • penetrating gaze
  • penetrating analysis
  • penetrating sound
  • penetrating question
  • penetrating insight
  • penetrating aroma
  • penetrating stare

Word family

noun penetration
verb penetrate
adverb penetratingly

Usage note

When used to describe a look or gaze, 'penetrating' suggests intensity and the ability to discern deeply. It can also describe sounds or smells that are strong and pervasive.

Example sentences

  1. The penetrating cold made me shiver.
  2. The scientist used a penetrating laser to study the material.
  3. The dog's penetrating bark scared the mailman.
  4. The writer had a penetrating insight into the character's motivations.
  5. The penetrating odor of the skunk lingered in the air.

Quotes

  • The most penetrating discovery of my generation is that a human being can alter his life by altering his attitudes.
  • The power of penetration which language gives to the mind ought never to be abused.
  • An idea that is not dangerous is unworthy of being called an idea at all.

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