Definitions

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.

These suggest that its stance toward overseas M&A is more prudent, Shang adds.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 8, 2026

Reformers say the shift is both legally necessary and socially prudent.

From Los Angeles Times • May 29, 2026

These developments don’t threaten dollar dominance today or tomorrow, but they reflect a genuine, if gradual, de-risking impulse among sovereigns who have concluded that some diversification away from dollar concentration is prudent.

From Barron's • May 27, 2026

Analysts had forecast 8% organic growth for fiscal 2027, with some noting Experian’s guidance looks prudent.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 20, 2026

She was exceedingly fond of Telemachus, not only because he was her dear Odysseus’ son, but because he was a sober, discreet young man, steady and prudent and dependable.

From "Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Heroes" by Edith Hamilton

Vocabulary lists containing prudent

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