Definition of wisenext
1
2
3
4
5

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 The top layer of each cantilever also features a series of silicon dioxide bars running perpendicular to the waveguide, which keep the cantilever from curling along its width while also improving its length-wise curvature. IEEE Spectrum, 9 Apr. 2026 Acquiring a back with similar traits might be wise. Blair Kerkhoff, Kansas City Star, 8 Apr. 2026 Given all the issues surrounding [other family members], this is a wise move to ensure future stability. Stephanie Nolasco , Ashley Papa, FOXNews.com, 8 Apr. 2026 For many years the wild turkey was near extinction, but thanks to wise management programs the birds have made a strong comeback. Bruce Brady, Outdoor Life, 8 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for wise
Recent Examples of Synonyms for wise
Adjective
  • Extra points Eric Musselman will need to be more prudent in the transfer portal.
    Ryan Kartje, Los Angeles Times, 6 Apr. 2026
  • Congress enacted a good-faith and largely prudent updating of Social Security.
    Edward Lotterman, Twin Cities, 5 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • The issue is mostly with visitors coming to my house and us visiting relatives who are not aware of our day-to-day lives.
    R. Eric Thomas, Chicago Tribune, 9 Apr. 2026
  • In some cases, the new owners were not aware that the responsibility of the tanks had been transferred to them.
    Ashley Miznazi, Miami Herald, 9 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Pangan, 28, who lives in Torrance, felt confused that her friend who lives in Orange County was able to get desirable cheap tickets for swimming, track and tennis.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 8 Apr. 2026
  • In the case of the Defender 110 X-Dynamic SE, that blend starts at $75,200, and easily approaches $100,000 if one adds all of the desirable amenities.
    John Scott Lewinski, Robb Report, 8 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Fly across the world to visit archives and then look at additional pamphlets just because the covers look cute.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 10 Apr. 2026
  • For adventurous travelers who want to look cute in photos but also have a hike, tennis match, or other adventure on the agenda, this pleated skirt is an ideal pick.
    Paris Wilson, Travel + Leisure, 10 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Our take on classic chicken salad features curry powder and fresh cilantro for a spicy, bold flavor.
    Phoebe Evans, Southern Living, 13 Apr. 2026
  • Two years after debuting his bold ink in 2024, MGK talked more indepth about the story behind his physical transformation.
    Michelle Lee, PEOPLE, 13 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • The project offers an insightful look at Odom, a gifted athlete and former star on the Los Angeles Lakers whose championship career was shattered by multiple personal demons and addiction.
    Yvonne Villarreal, Los Angeles Times, 10 Apr. 2026
  • De Waal is really insightful, and his writing is just beautiful.
    The New Yorker, New Yorker, 8 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • As young fans gripped their face in agony, the older faces held their palms up in knowing shrugs.
    Beren Cross, New York Times, 6 Apr. 2026
  • In addition to the headline cars, there will be a knowing selection of more left-field, rare-groove Italian makers represented, including vehicles from Bizzarrini, Siata, and Cisitalia.
    Ben Oliver, Robb Report, 3 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Peterson’s tactical approach steeped in reshaping the Hornets by emphasizing player health and development, a team-first culture and the importance of acquiring assets springboarded the Hornets into the national conversation again.
    Roderick Boone, Charlotte Observer, 9 Apr. 2026
  • This profile, combined with the launch aircraft’s ability to remain outside enemy air-defense envelopes, gives the system a clear tactical advantage over slower, level-flying cruise missiles.
    Chris Young, Interesting Engineering, 6 Apr. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Wise.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/wise. Accessed 14 Apr. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on wise

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster