What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
wiseman
Example
The wiseman advised the young entrepreneur on how to start a successful business. [wiseman: noun]
Example
My grandfather was a wise man who taught me many valuable life lessons. [wise: adjective]
sage
Example
The sage advised the king on matters of statecraft and diplomacy. [sage: noun]
Example
She had a sage understanding of human nature and could always offer sound advice. [sage: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Wiseman is more commonly used in everyday language, while sage is more often used in literature and poetry.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between wiseman and sage?
Both wiseman and sage are formal words that are used to describe a person who is respected for their intelligence, insight, and good judgment. However, sage has a more poetic and literary connotation, making it more suitable for formal writing and speech.