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.

They’re owed the full return those contributions can generate under prudent management.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 11, 2026

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

"The situation in the Middle East remains uncertain, so it is prudent to be ready should fuel prices rise further and add more pressure to households and businesses," Willis said.

From Barron's • May 28, 2026

“It is prudent such attempts should be concealed as well as suppressed,” he confided to a friend in a letter.

From "In the Shadow of Liberty" by Kenneth C. Davis

Vocabulary lists containing prudent

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The Hobbit

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Grade 10, List 4

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