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Synonym Chooser

How is the word wise distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of wise are judicious, prudent, sage, sane, sapient, and sensible. While all these words mean "having or showing sound judgment," wise suggests great understanding of people and of situations and unusual discernment and judgment in dealing with them.

wise beyond his tender years

Where would judicious be a reasonable alternative to wise?

In some situations, the words judicious and wise are roughly equivalent. However, judicious stresses a capacity for reaching wise decisions or just conclusions.

judicious parents using kindness and discipline in equal measure

When can prudent be used instead of wise?

The synonyms prudent and wise are sometimes interchangeable, but prudent suggests the exercise of restraint guided by sound practical wisdom and discretion.

a prudent decision to wait out the storm

When is sage a more appropriate choice than wise?

While in some cases nearly identical to wise, sage suggests wide experience, great learning, and wisdom.

the sage advice of my father

When is it sensible to use sane instead of wise?

The meanings of sane and wise largely overlap; however, sane stresses mental soundness, rationality, and levelheadedness.

remained sane even in times of crises

In what contexts can sapient take the place of wise?

The words sapient and wise are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, sapient suggests great sagacity and discernment.

the sapient musings of an old philosopher

When could sensible be used to replace wise?

The words sensible and wise can be used in similar contexts, but sensible applies to action guided and restrained by good sense and rationality.

a sensible woman who was not fooled by flattery

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of wise Ramsey is a talented actor, but the task of carrying the show by portraying a recognizable teen on a complicated existential journey in the middle of a life-or-death adventure tale is a formidable one, especially without the benefit of an older, wiser guide/co-star. Mary McNamara, Los Angeles Times, 26 May 2025 The one that was pretty impactful for me at Cannes, at least life trajectory wise, probably more impactful than all of those other films, came in 2012. Chris Gardner, HollywoodReporter, 18 May 2025 Many studies consider the incremental dollars spent on Medicaid by blue states to be a wise investment. Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, Time, 16 May 2025 If not, while national security, stability, and local shipbuilding growth are important, adding levies to tariffs this year may not be wise. Phillip Molnar, Mercury News, 16 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for wise
Recent Examples of Synonyms for wise
Adjective
  • Washington State's prudent financial governance stands in stark contrast to Washington DC's struggle with fiscal discipline.
    Robert Daugherty, Forbes.com, 17 May 2025
  • In each case, Simon stresses that best-available player not only is the safest approach but also the most prudent.
    Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 16 May 2025
Adjective
  • However, investors should be aware of certain risks.
    Trefis Team, Forbes.com, 27 May 2025
  • Goldenberg says in the future, rank-and-file attendees need to be aware of those signs — and act on them by alerting someone.
    Andrew Lapin, Sun Sentinel, 27 May 2025
Adjective
  • There is no obvious spot for two more games on the opening weekend that would provide a desirable, exclusive TV window.
    Ralph D. Russo, New York Times, 21 May 2025
  • Dear Liz: My husband and I built a home on a hillside over 30 years ago in a desirable neighborhood with a beautiful view.
    Liz Weston, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 May 2025
Adjective
  • The knotted fabric straps have an elevated look, making these cute enough to wear with your favorite sundresses and skirts.
    Amelia McBride, Travel + Leisure, 1 June 2025
  • Shows can only be so cute or funny or familiar or fresh.
    Maureen Lee Lenker, EW.com, 28 May 2025
Adjective
  • While some men gravitate toward bold logos or avant-garde streetwear, Powers advises balance.
    Cassell Ferere, Forbes.com, 25 May 2025
  • This is maximalism to a T: a big stripe, a ruffle detail, a bold contrast.
    Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 25 May 2025
Adjective
  • Perhaps these women can never be friends, but even with this terrifyingly uncertain life ahead of her, Serena manages to be compassionate and attentive and insightful — a person who, in a very different world, could have been worthy of June’s friendship.
    Amanda Whiting, Vulture, 27 May 2025
  • While many praised the video’s message and Rylie’s insightful approach, others criticized the mom for not sharing her specific experiences with her daughter.
    Ashley Vega, People.com, 27 May 2025
Adjective
  • Hooded eyes, a linear slash for a mouth, a square jaw, a tousle of hair — the startling frugality of lines that bring the dying sitter to full life embodies the knowing depth of the couple’s relationship.
    Christopher Knight, Los Angeles Times, 17 Apr. 2025
  • On the contrary, Grade observes their fictional counterparts with a knowing, sometimes cynical, but always loving eye.
    Judith Shulevitz, The Atlantic, 16 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Relying on a single revenue stream, funding partner or tactical approach is increasingly risky.
    Kirsten Wegner, Forbes.com, 21 May 2025
  • The second quality is psychological: his tactical reading of the game.
    Jack Pitt-Brooke, New York Times, 21 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Wise.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/wise. Accessed 4 Jun. 2025.

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