NOUS Synonyms: 57 Similar and Opposite Words

nous

noun

Definition of nous

chiefly British

as in prudence

the ability to make intelligent decisions especially in everyday matters an Oxford don who was long on erudition but a little short on everyday nous

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 nous The assessment contradicts Western conventional wisdom that Moscow has approached the conflict more as a meat grinder than with strategic nous. — Prashant Rao, semafor.com, 8 Oct. 2025 Alonso's coaching career has been turbocharged by his impressive tactical nous, which was the driving factor in the success of a Bayer Leverkusen side substantially less well-resourced than its rivals. — Zak Garner-Purkis, Forbes.com, 25 July 2025 He's credited Pep Guardiola for his tactical nous in the past, but that doesn't explain away Sevilla. — SI.com, 2 Oct. 2019 The industry will have to use its considerable commercial nous to hit its growth targets if Brexit provokes a deep rupture with the EU. — The Economist, 3 May 2018 See All Example Sentences for nous

Recent Examples of Synonyms for nous

Noun

The five points of the star represent the characteristics of a good citizen, which are fortitude, loyalty, righteousness, prudence, and broadmindedness.

— Ella Gonzales, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 31 July 2026
Then the old limits arrive dressed as prudence and being humble.

— Alexander Puutio, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026

Definition of prudence

Noun

One way in which Wounaan do so is conscientiously sharing and redistributing food, money, wisdom and the like to foster equity.

— Chenier Carpio Opua, The Conversation, 5 Aug. 2026
For decades when someone found a lost pet, the prevailing wisdom was to take the dog or cat straight to a local animal shelter.

— Jen Reeder, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2026

Definition of wisdom

Noun

Because of its garden, this is the kind of getaway with quiet outdoor spaces where that makes perfect sense.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 Aug. 2026
Away back along the old sewer bank, the old place is anything like home either, now creating a deeper sense of loss for the supporters.

— Lee Clayton, New York Times, 4 Aug. 2026

Definition of sense

Noun

But blessed with unusual wit and sensitivity, as well as a delightful young cast, the Amazon drama nevertheless stands out as something special.

— Angie Han, HollywoodReporter, 4 Aug. 2026
Olson was known for her wit, honesty and way of making people feel welcome and important, the obituary added.

— David Chiu, PEOPLE, 3 Aug. 2026

Definition of wit

Noun

Secretary of State Marco Rubio also defended the military strikes, saying at a Senate hearing in June that the Defense Department determined the strikes' legality and based its decisions on intelligence information.

— Chris Boccia, ABC News, 3 Aug. 2026
So that expedited growth also reflects Simmons’ drive and intelligence — among other traits that animate the athleticism of his 6-foot-4, 215-pound frame and powerful left throwing arm.

— Vahe Gregorian, Kansas City Star, 3 Aug. 2026