Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective worldly-wise differ from other similar words?

The words blasé and sophisticated are common synonyms of worldly-wise. While all three words mean "experienced in the ways of the world," worldly-wise suggests a close and practical knowledge of the affairs and manners of society and an inclination toward materialism.

a worldly-wise woman with a philosophy of personal independence

When can blasé be used instead of worldly-wise?

The meanings of blasé and worldly-wise largely overlap; however, blasé implies a lack of responsiveness to common joys as a result of a real or affected surfeit of experience and cultivation.

blasé travelers who claimed to have been everywhere

Where would sophisticated be a reasonable alternative to worldly-wise?

In some situations, the words sophisticated and worldly-wise are roughly equivalent. However, sophisticated often implies refinement, urbanity, cleverness, and cultivation.

guests at her salon were usually rich and sophisticated

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 worldly-wise Crucially, they are grounded in real-world experiences, from a recent exchange with worldly-wise restaurant waitresses in Bordeaux exemplifying trust and collaboration, to the coaching of top CEOs over the past 20 years. Hec Paris Insights, Forbes, 25 Oct. 2024 Heather Alicia Simms and Vanessa Bell Calloway are both sharp, witty, and poignant without sentimentality as the play’s two matriarchal figures, the formidable Missy Judson and Idella Landy, the wry, worldly-wise housekeeper who essentially raised Charlie. Sara Holdren, Vulture, 16 June 2024 Parroni does a good job of balancing the way that adolescents veer from experimenting with a worldly-wise cynicism and dipping back into the wildness of childhood. Catherine Bray, Variety, 9 Sep. 2023
Recent Examples of Synonyms for worldly-wise
Adjective
  • These Sandy Mule Flats from Target’s fashion line A New Day are ideal for cool weather, look sophisticated without sacrificing comfort, and are currently marked down to just $24 over Labor Day weekend.
    Rachel Trujillo, People.com, 1 Sep. 2025
  • In a tasting, sophisticated balance is the most prominent factor.
    Andy Vasoyan, Forbes.com, 1 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • The cosmopolitan Sajet was born in Nigeria to Dutch parents, and was raised in Australia.
    Jim Higgins, jsonline.com, 3 Sep. 2025
  • As one of Europe’s most cosmopolitan cities, travelers can enjoy days in the English capital feasting on flavors of the world, followed by nights at storied hotels where royals, celebrities, and dignitaries are among the familiar faces.
    AFAR Media, AFAR Media, 2 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • In addition to being a formidable businessman, Armani is credited with breathing new life into menswear and creating a new system of dressing for women, marrying Italian leggerezza with worldly references (China was a frequent reference point) and becoming synonymous with timeless elegance.
    Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 4 Sep. 2025
  • Shannon McLaren infuses her fashion experience and worldly perspective into Prairie Interiors, her Newport Beach firm.
    Elizabeth Stamp, Architectural Digest, 3 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Worldly-wise.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/worldly-wise. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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