Astute

adj.thoughtful, capableprofessional

What it means

Quick to notice what matters and turn it into sound judgment.

Reach for it when praising perceptive practical intelligence in a particular situation

Her astute question revealed that the cheaper contract shifted the risk to residents.

playful
savvy
streetwise or current practical knowledge suits an informal tone
not when A formal recommendation or ceremonial tribute needs a less conversational word.
everyday
insightful
the person reveals a deeper understanding of the issue
not when An insightful comment need not lead to a good practical decision.
everyday
sharp
quick intelligence should sound lively and direct
not when Sharp can feel vague or even cutting without context.
warm
perceptive
noticing subtle feelings, patterns, or details is the chief strength
not when Perception alone does not guarantee the practical judgment implied by astute.
warm
wise
mature judgment about what is good is the broad compliment
not when Wisdom is wider and more moral than situational astuteness.
professional
shrewd
sharp practical judgment, especially about advantage, is meant
not when It may suggest calculating self-interest in a warm character description.
formal
discerning
careful discrimination between fine differences deserves praise
not when Astute is better for a fast judgment made amid changing circumstances.
formal
judicious
balanced, careful choice matters more than speed of perception
not when A judicious decision can follow long study rather than astute quickness.

astute observer
An astute observer, Ken noticed which rule caused the repeated delay.
astute judgment
Her astute judgment protected the grant without stalling the project.
politically astute
The politically astute organizer secured support before announcing the proposal.

The definition and the example on this page are written here. The dictionaries above ground which meaning is being described, not the wording.