Synonym Chooser

How is the word judicious distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of judicious are prudent, sage, sane, sapient, sensible, and wise. While all these words mean "having or showing sound judgment," judicious stresses a capacity for reaching wise decisions or just conclusions.

judicious parents using kindness and discipline in equal measure

When would prudent be a good substitute for judicious?

While the synonyms prudent and judicious are close in meaning, prudent suggests the exercise of restraint guided by sound practical wisdom and discretion.

a prudent decision to wait out the storm

Where would sage be a reasonable alternative to judicious?

The words sage and judicious can be used in similar contexts, but sage suggests wide experience, great learning, and wisdom.

the sage advice of my father

When could sane be used to replace judicious?

While in some cases nearly identical to judicious, sane stresses mental soundness, rationality, and levelheadedness.

remained sane even in times of crises

When is sapient a more appropriate choice than judicious?

In some situations, the words sapient and judicious are roughly equivalent. However, sapient suggests great sagacity and discernment.

the sapient musings of an old philosopher

When might sensible be a better fit than judicious?

The words sensible and judicious are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, sensible applies to action guided and restrained by good sense and rationality.

a sensible woman who was not fooled by flattery

In what contexts can wise take the place of judicious?

Although the words wise and judicious have much in common, wise suggests great understanding of people and of situations and unusual discernment and judgment in dealing with them.

wise beyond his tender years

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 judicious Apple is judicious about raising hardware prices in the U.S. This is the first time that Apple's entry-level Pro phone has gotten a price increase over $999 since the debut of its predecessor iPhone X in 2017. Kif Leswing, CNBC, 9 Sep. 2025 As this is a smaller toy and one with judicious amounts of diecast in the joints, this should make for a very good rendition of this classic mecha from Metal Gear Solid. Ollie Barder, Forbes.com, 28 Aug. 2025 But be judicious about application and follow the label instructions because these products kill beneficial bugs, too. Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 24 Aug. 2025 Rodriguez’s success is due in part to his judicious usage. Andrew Baggarly, New York Times, 20 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for judicious
Recent Examples of Synonyms for judicious
Adjective
  • The latest entry, 2023's Galactic Civilizations IV, has the most sophisticated AI of the lot, making your allies and enemies feel more real, and more intelligent.
    Fran Ruiz, Space.com, 14 Oct. 2025
  • That kind of emotionally intelligent way of working was not seen as one of the old Victoria’s Secret’s strong points.
    Evan Clark, Footwear News, 14 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • That said, Gordon believes the sale announced by Tucker, who was promoted from Jack in the Box chief financial officer to CEO on March 31, is a prudent one.
    Rob Nikolewski, San Diego Union-Tribune, 16 Oct. 2025
  • During my previous time on the board, my fellow members and I practiced prudent fiscal management that consistently extended the life of levies far beyond their original three-year term, some lasting as long as nine years.
    Grace Tucker, Cincinnati Enquirer, 15 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • However, owners should also be cautious of potential dangers and hazards of outdoor adventures, as this pet parent learned from the dog's frightful fall.
    Liz O'Connell, MSNBC Newsweek, 14 Oct. 2025
  • Hiring has ground to nearly a halt, which could partly reflect a more cautious approach by many firms in the wake of the uncertainty created by the higher tariffs.
    Jessica Coacci, Fortune, 14 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • In other hands, this would cue a standard disease-of-the-week weepie, but Coixet keeps the tone lightly wistful and wise, and trains her attention ever more minutely on Rohrwacher, who along with her character, seems to blossom gradually under this steady gaze.
    Jessica Kiang, Variety, 13 Oct. 2025
  • Point guard James Harden had a quiet night scoring-wise with five points, but handed out 11 assists.
    Janis Carr, Oc Register, 13 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Some valuable painting owners preferred discreet sales to avoid robbery.
    Richard J. Gonzales, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 18 Oct. 2025
  • Loro Piana is known for its fine cashmere, fabric innovation and understated styling — but there’s nothing discreet about the Italian brand’s installation at Bergdorf Goodman.
    David Moin, Footwear News, 17 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Multiple board members cited the ability to make the time commitment and experience in K-12 education as desirable characteristics.
    Edward McKinnon, Arkansas Online, 16 Oct. 2025
  • No matter how desirable the product, hefty price tags and a lack of charging infrastructure present a challenge for dealers when pitching the vehicles to their customers.
    Jackie Charniga, USA Today, 13 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Left to ruminate and refine his tactical blueprint over a two-week international break, write off him and his side at your peril.
    Phil Hay, New York Times, 17 Oct. 2025
  • These tactical alliances should not be mistaken for strategic realignment.
    Bobby Ghosh, Time, 16 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Judicious.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/judicious. Accessed 21 Oct. 2025.

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