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Definition of wisenext
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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 So the only alternative, business-wise, is to take out Bunny. Demetrius Patterson, HollywoodReporter, 5 Jan. 2026 Heat-wise, this honey is fairly bold—like a mini firework show for your tastebuds. Symiah Dorsey, Southern Living, 4 Jan. 2026 Stay close to your wisest friends, there’s a lot to be learned together. Tribune Content Agency, Baltimore Sun, 4 Jan. 2026 Stay close to your wisest friends, as there’s a lot to be learned together. Magi Helena, Dallas Morning News, 4 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for wise
Recent Examples of Synonyms for wise
Adjective
  • For this precancerous, very early-stage breast condition, careful monitoring may be more prudent than immediate surgery, research shows.
    Melissa Rudy, FOXNews.com, 5 Jan. 2026
  • That’s the most prudent path here.
    Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 5 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Jerry is 83 years old, and well aware of his play clock.
    Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 8 Jan. 2026
  • Police said evidence suggested Salat was aware of the victim’s age and attempted to meet with the child in person.
    Rose Evans, Idaho Statesman, 7 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • This technical variation results in a fabric with a number of highly desirable characteristics for denim.
    SJ Studio, Sourcing Journal, 8 Jan. 2026
  • The house features a number of desirable amenities, including a home theater and a pool.
    Marina Watts, PEOPLE, 8 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Ariana Grande made a cute face while taking a pic with Steven Spielberg.
    Stephanie Sengwe, PEOPLE, 12 Jan. 2026
  • Jump on the trend early with this cute, hands-free Michael Kors crossbody bag.
    Alyssa Morin, InStyle, 11 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Calf & Pony Hair The sleek, tactile surface of pony hair adds a bold edge to any accessory, creating a striking contrast in bags, hats, and footwear.
    Cortne Bonilla, Vogue, 9 Nov. 2025
  • Simone’s performance is mesmerizing—bold, vulnerable, and transformative.
    Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 9 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • Delhomme’s answer, by turns humorous and insightful, is worth listening to.
    Scott Fowler, Charlotte Observer, 7 Jan. 2026
  • Cherry Blossoms • Monique’s picking up on the intensity with which Angel clings to her identity as an NFL wife was genuinely insightful and has the potential to be a real breakthrough moment for Angel in what has been a very fraught season for her.
    Shamira Ibrahim, Vulture, 5 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • In the video, Castela sings these words with a knowing smirk.
    Carolina Abbott Galvão, The Dial, 6 Jan. 2026
  • Or full well knowing that having a multitude of affluence creates a multitude of influence?
    Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 5 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • This new designation applies to a system based on the C-130J-30 Super Hercules tactical transport, and the service plans to introduce nine of these aircraft by 2028.
    Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 10 Jan. 2026
  • Watson, who Cal-OSHA investigators sought to interview, and Rajinder Gill, a Sutter County Sheriff’s lieutenant, led the tactical teams that participated in the operation during which Rodarte was killed.
    Jake Goodrick, Sacbee.com, 9 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Wise.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/wise. Accessed 12 Jan. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on wise

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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