quite astute

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "quite astute" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is very perceptive or insightful, often in a context where their intelligence or sharpness is being acknowledged. Example: "Her analysis of the market trends was quite astute, demonstrating her deep understanding of the industry."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

To be able to work out people's behaviours and find evidence, you need to be quite astute – and taking course to learn the relevant skills can help.

The Guardian

Back in October, Mr Milosevic had promised to co-operate with the court, though he has never recognised its authority.Why is the Yugoslav leader, often quite astute at assessing the seriousness of foreign threats, again playing with fire?

The Economist

Politically it is quite astute, because it would put opponents of public health insurance in the position of having to persuade state legislatures to affirmatively deprive their constituents of a federal benefit for the dubious pleasure of being uninsured foot soldiers in an abstract Fox News-talk radio-led war against fascist communist socialist European redistributionism.

The New Yorker

The second largest faith community, which constitutes no more than 4% of the total population, has come of age and become quite astute in dealing with the elections according to interests, priorities and concerns, many of which are shared by a majority of the British people.

The Guardian - Opinion

Gardner's non-quote has since endured primarily as a staple of the rivalry between Australia's two biggest cities, but it's actually quite astute.

BBC

There are plenty of aphorisms about the digital human condition, many of them quite astute: "Email is a to-do list given to you by other people" is one of my favorites.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

"But when you look at what Ross did with that team it looks like quite an astute business decision.

Independent

I thought it was quite entertaining and astute, but when she saw it she just gave me this withering look.

The Guardian

Both appear angsty rather than astute.

Independent

Yet as Stones is not yet signed and Bamford is not immediately available, the business Chelsea have actually conducted does not quite look the most astute of the summer so far.

The Guardian - Sport

That's good, because now we can be a bit amused by the story of how a British nuclear submarine — the wonderfully, if not quite aptly, named HMS Astute — got stuck in the mud just yards off the Isle of Skye.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "quite astute" when you want to convey that someone's intelligence or perception is notable, but avoid overusing it to maintain its impact.

Common error

Avoid using "quite astute" excessively in your writing. While it's a valid phrase, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive or pretentious. Vary your vocabulary to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "quite astute" functions as an adjective phrase that modifies a noun. It is used to attribute a quality of keen intelligence, discernment, or shrewdness to someone or something. Ludwig shows that this phrase is frequently used to describe analyses, observations, or decisions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "quite astute" is a grammatically correct and frequently employed adjective phrase used to describe someone or something possessing keen intelligence or shrewd judgment. Ludwig AI validates this usage, confirming its presence primarily in news and media contexts. While not overly formal, it maintains a neutral tone suitable for professional communications, as well. To avoid sounding repetitive, consider alternative phrases such as "very perceptive" or "highly insightful". Overall, "quite astute" is a reliable way to acknowledge someone's sharp understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

very perceptive

Emphasizes the ability to notice and understand things quickly and accurately; less formal than "quite astute".

highly insightful

Highlights the depth of understanding and ability to see beyond the surface; slightly more formal.

remarkably shrewd

Focuses on practical intelligence and the ability to make good judgments; implies cleverness.

exceptionally discerning

Stresses the ability to distinguish subtle differences and make fine judgments; more formal.

considerably sharp-witted

Highlights quick intelligence and cleverness in responding to situations; less formal.

noticeably insightful

Similar to "highly insightful" but may suggest a more readily apparent level of understanding.

pretty canny

Informal, suggesting shrewdness and cleverness, especially in business or practical matters.

rather clever

A more general term for intelligence and ingenuity; can be less emphatic than "quite astute".

decidedly intelligent

Simply emphasizes a high level of intelligence.

fairly shrewd

Indicates a level of shrewdness that is above average; less forceful than "remarkably shrewd".

FAQs

How can I use "quite astute" in a sentence?

You can use "quite astute" to describe someone's observations, analysis, or decisions. For example, "Her analysis of the situation was "quite astute", revealing insights others had missed."

What are some alternatives to "quite astute"?

Alternatives include "very perceptive", "highly insightful", or "remarkably shrewd". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "quite astute" formal or informal?

"Quite astute" is generally considered to be a neutral phrase, suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although it leans slightly towards the formal side. In very informal settings, simpler alternatives like "very sharp" might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "astute" and "quite astute"?

Adding "quite" before "astute" simply intensifies the adjective, indicating a more noticeable or significant level of shrewdness or perceptiveness. "Astute" alone implies a basic level of cleverness, while "quite astute" suggests it's particularly remarkable.