wise

[waɪz]

wise Definition

• 1. having or showing experience, knowledge, and good judgement
• 2. able to make sensible decisions based on personal understanding
• 3. informal: possessing street smarts or common sense

Using wise: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "wise" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  She is a wise woman who has seen a lot in her life.

• Example

  It would be wise to save some money for emergencies.

• Example

  He gave me some wise advice about investing in the stock market.

• Example

  In this neighborhood, you have to be street-wise to stay safe.

wise Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for wise

• sensible
• prudent
• judicious
• astute
• shrewd

Antonyms for wise

• foolish
• unwise
• ignorant

Idioms Using wise

• put/set someone wise

  to inform or educate someone about something

  Example

  Let me put you wise about the new boss. He's a stickler for punctuality, so don't be late.

• get wise to someone/something

  to become aware of someone's true intentions or the true nature of something

  Example

  It took me a while, but I finally got wise to his lies and deceit.

• wise beyond one's years

  having the wisdom, maturity, or experience that is not typical for someone of one's age

  Example

  She may only be 20, but she's wise beyond her years when it comes to dealing with difficult people.

Phrases with wise

• wise up

  to become informed or knowledgeable about something

  Example

  If you want to succeed in this business, you need to wise up about the latest trends and technologies.

• wise guy

  a person who makes sarcastic or disrespectful comments in an attempt to be clever or funny

  Example

  Don't be a wise guy with me, young man! Show some respect!

• wise to someone/something

  having knowledge or understanding of someone's true intentions or the true nature of something

  Example

  I'm wise to your tricks, so don't even try to fool me.

Origins of wise

from Old English 'wīs', meaning 'skilled, experienced'

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Summary: wise in Brief

The term 'wise' [waɪz] describes someone who has experience, knowledge, and good judgement, and is able to make sensible decisions based on personal understanding. It can also refer to possessing street smarts or common sense. Examples include 'She is a wise woman who has seen a lot in her life.' and 'In this neighborhood, you have to be street-wise to stay safe.' Phrases like 'wise up' and idioms like 'get wise to someone/something' denote becoming informed or knowledgeable about something.