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pénétration

penetration, piercing

noun peh-neh-trah-SYOHN Rare

Origin: from Latin penetrare 'to enter'

Also means

insight, acuity

Usage Note

Pénétration covers physical entry as well as mental sharpness — la pénétration d'un marché (market penetration in business) and esprit de pénétration (incisive mind) are both standard uses. The adjective pénétrant (penetrating, sharp) is closely related and used for looks, smells, or analyses.

Examples

"Sa pénétration d'esprit l'aide à résoudre les problèmes."

Natural Translation

His mental acuity helps him solve problems.

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