unwise

adjective

un·​wise ˌən-ˈwīz How to pronounce unwise (audio)
: lacking wisdom or good sense : foolish, imprudent
unwisely adverb

Examples of unwise in a Sentence

It would be unwise to buy a house now. made the unwise decision to invest in a brand-new company
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
For many years, Tariffs were allowed to be used against us by our uncaring and unwise Politicians. Brady Knox, The Washington Examiner, 30 Aug. 2025 For many years, Tariffs were allowed to be used against us by our uncaring and unwise Politicians. Gabe Whisnant, MSNBC Newsweek, 29 Aug. 2025 The bishop stated that endorsing candidates is unwise and unbiblical, while Barker argued for supporting candidates aligned with Christian values. Sophie Carson, jsonline.com, 21 Aug. 2025 An unwise subject replied in terms of moral absolutes—No way! Meghan O’Gieblyn, Harpers Magazine, 20 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for unwise

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unwise was before the 12th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Unwise.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unwise. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

unwise

adjective
un·​wise ˌən-ˈwīz How to pronounce unwise (audio)
ˈən-
: not wise : foolish
unwisely adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on unwise

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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