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

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as in prudence

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

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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 McCown reiterates some pivotal bits of wisdom: two hands fixated on the ball in the pocket, no sacks on bootlegs, etc. —

Alec Lewis, The Athletic, 9 Jan. 2025 The actions of these forward-thinking companies remind us that age can embody wisdom, experience, and strength. —

Dan Pontefract, Forbes, 8 Jan. 2025 Only those with a tolerance for fortune-cookie wisdom and Nick Offerman voice-over narration need apply. —

A.a. Dowd, Vulture, 6 Jan. 2025 So begins Kate MacIntosh’s delightful historical novel that parcels out wit and wisdom from widow Barbe-Nicole Clicquot in 1805. —

Staff, The Christian Science Monitor, 6 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for wisdom

Recent Examples of Synonyms for wisdom

Noun

Still, these comparisons can offer valuable insights into broader patterns of segregation and access.

Sergio Hernandez, ProPublica, 16 Jan. 2025
Read on for their expert insights into how to overcome 14 of the most pressing challenges facing companies seeking to hire top talent.

Expert Panel®, Forbes, 16 Jan. 2025