What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
foolish
Example
It would be foolish to go outside without a coat in this weather. [foolish: adjective]
Example
He made a foolish decision by quitting his job without having another one lined up. [foolish: adjective]
unwise
Example
It would be unwise to invest all your money in one stock. [unwise: adjective]
Example
She knew it was unwise to stay out so late the night before an important exam. [unwise: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Foolish is more commonly used in everyday language than unwise.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between foolish and unwise?
Unwise is generally considered more formal than foolish, making it more appropriate for academic or professional contexts.
