Synonym Chooser

How is the word advisable distinct from other similar adjectives?

The words expedient and politic are common synonyms of advisable. While all three words mean "dictated by practical or prudent motives," advisable applies to what is practical, prudent, or advantageous but lacks the derogatory implication of expedient and politic.

sometimes it's advisable to say nothing

When is expedient a more appropriate choice than advisable?

The words expedient and advisable can be used in similar contexts, but expedient usually implies what is immediately advantageous without regard for ethics or consistent principles.

a politically expedient decision

In what contexts can politic take the place of advisable?

The meanings of politic and advisable largely overlap; however, politic stresses judiciousness and tactical value but usually implies some lack of candor or sincerity.

a politic show of interest

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 advisable For instance, using a smart card such as a YubiKey or Google’s Titan Key for multifactor authentication, is advisable from a security point of view, but may rank lower on the convenience scale. Julie Goldenberg, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2025 The district, one of the largest municipal junk bond issuers — or high-risk borrowers — in the nation, according to analysts, has received warnings from credit agencies that taking a loan to meet basic operational needs is not advisable. Nell Salzman, Chicago Tribune, 18 Aug. 2025 No cream is going to restore volume—different treatments like PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin, derived from your body’s blood) or PRP therapies to stimulate your own tissue would be advisable. Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 10 Aug. 2025 There’s no way that’s medically advisable in her condition. Rebecca Alter, Vulture, 4 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for advisable
Recent Examples of Synonyms for advisable
Adjective
  • At this point, a prudent President would have stayed silent.
    Ruth Marcus, New Yorker, 26 Sep. 2025
  • And for a program run by a nation-state or a billionaire that doesn't want to have a rocket blow up, this is prudent.
    Eric Berger, ArsTechnica, 25 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Her aptitude was unavoidable at the Fendi show, where top models holding desirable handbags, styled with joyful knits, eye-catching dresses and sporty separates, strutted past guests, including actors Hilary Duff, Naomi Watts and Bang Chan of the South Korean boy band Stray Kids.
    Kati Chitrakorn, CNN Money, 29 Sep. 2025
  • The combination of scarcity and eye appeal should help this remain a desirable card for years to come.
    Andrew Mackie, New York Times, 29 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • There are many layers that get peeled back in this wise film.
    Randy Myers, Mercury News, 30 Sep. 2025
  • That won’t be the case every week, but Diggs looks up to speed — healthy and chemistry-wise — which puts him in the WR3/4 conversation and gives that Boutte the boot.
    Jake Ciely, New York Times, 30 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Outside the home, keep tree branches pruned, and as far away from the house as possible.
    Andrea Riquier, USA Today, 3 Oct. 2025
  • Minor hail damage to vegetation is possible.
    CA Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 3 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Advisable.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/advisable. Accessed 3 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on advisable

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