WISDOM Synonyms: 155 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the noun 'wisdom' contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of wisdom are common sense , judgment , and sense . While all these words mean "ability to reach intelligent conclusions," wisdom implies sense and judgment far above average. // a leader of rare wisdom

Q: In what contexts can 'common sense' take the place of 'wisdom'?

The words common sense and wisdom are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, common sense suggests an average degree of such ability without sophistication or special knowledge. // common sense tells me it's wrong

Q: When is it sensible to use 'judgment' instead of 'wisdom'?

In some situations, the words judgment and wisdom are roughly equivalent. However, judgment implies sense tempered and refined by experience, training, and maturity. // they relied on her judgment for guidance

Q: When might 'sense' be a better fit than 'wisdom'?

Although the words sense and wisdom have much in common, sense implies a reliable ability to judge and decide with soundness, prudence, and intelligence. // a choice showing good sense

wisdom

noun

ˈwiz-dəm

Definition of wisdom next

as in insight

the ability to understand inner qualities or relationships with age and experience comes wisdom—hopefully neither book learning nor simple intelligence should be confused with wisdom

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in science

a body of facts learned by study or experience the orientation meetings will provide the company's old hands with an opportunity to pass on their wisdom to the new employees

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in prudence

the ability to make intelligent decisions especially in everyday matters had overstayed her welcome and lacked the wisdom to know it

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in desirability

suitability for bringing about a desired result under the circumstances wondered about the wisdom of hiring such an inexperienced girl to care for the children

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun wisdom contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of wisdom are common sense, judgment, and sense. While all these words mean "ability to reach intelligent conclusions," wisdom implies sense and judgment far above average.

a leader of rare wisdom

In what contexts can common sense take the place of wisdom?

The words common sense and wisdom are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, common sense suggests an average degree of such ability without sophistication or special knowledge.

common sense tells me it's wrong

When is it sensible to use judgment instead of wisdom?

In some situations, the words judgment and wisdom are roughly equivalent. However, judgment implies sense tempered and refined by experience, training, and maturity.

they relied on her judgment for guidance

When might sense be a better fit than wisdom?

Although the words sense and wisdom have much in common, sense implies a reliable ability to judge and decide with soundness, prudence, and intelligence.

a choice showing good sense

Examples 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 wisdom Your hiking/camping/cycling outdoorsy friends are often serious gear heads, meticulously poring over reviews, guides, and the perennial wisdom of ounce-counting, basement-dwelling Reddit users to find the exact right thing. —

Scott Gilbertson, WIRED, 9 Dec. 2024 That effort stalled in November after a pushback from business and Republican party leaders, who questioned the wisdom of creating a $50 million revenue source to address a $5.5 million budget shortfall. —

Jim Riccioli, Journal Sentinel, 9 Dec. 2024 Grounded in luminous wisdom and unflinching vulnerability, Barron offers a roadmap for remaining integral while leaving the door open for connection—even with those who may not yet share the same perspectives. —

Ashlee Marie Preston, Forbes, 2 Dec. 2024 This is a time for reflection, so withdraw from the noise and reconnect with your inner wisdom. —

Meghan Rose, Glamour, 1 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for wisdom

Recent Examples of Synonyms for wisdom

Noun

This score helps users track health trends and receive actionable insights for improvement.

Kyle J. Russell, USA TODAY, 18 Dec. 2024
Berlinale regular Ira Sachs will return with Peter Hujar’s Day, starring Ben Wishaw and Rebecca Hall, a feature based on a 1974 conversation between photographer Hujar and his friend Linda Rosenkrantz, offering insight into the New York art scene.

Scott Roxborough, The Hollywood Reporter, 17 Dec. 2024