prudent

[prood-nt] / ˈprud nt /

ADJECTIVE

wise, sensible in action and thought

Synonyms

STRONGEST

careful cautious discreet economical frugal judicious reasonable sane shrewd vigilant

WEAK

advisable canny circumspect discerning far-sighted hedging one's bets judgmatic leery playing safe politic provident sagacious sage sapient sound sparing tactical thinking twice thrifty wary

Antonyms

STRONGEST

careless expensive foolish hasty inattentive incautious indiscreet nonsensical rash reckless stupid thoughtless uncareful uneconomical unreasonable wasteful

WEAK

imprudent unwise

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“We are taking a prudent approach,” Chief Executive Peter Arduini said about the lowered earnings outlook.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 29, 2026

But inflation has ticked up since, leaving Fed watchers to wonder whether the latest easing cycle was prudent or misguided.

From Barron's • Apr. 24, 2026

Instead, renting first is often a prudent strategy with multiple advantages and minimal downside.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 24, 2026

ServiceNow’s outlook “reflects a prudent assessment of those geopolitical headwinds on deal timing,” the company said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 22, 2026

The prudent queen, for her part, said: “Stranger, if only this came true--our love would go to you, with many gifts; aye, every man who passed would call you happy!”

From "The Odyssey" by Homer

Vocabulary lists containing prudent

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