wisely
Americanadverb
-
in a way that shows good sense or judgment; prudently.
In taking good care of our health, we have to be well-informed and wisely cautious.
-
in a way that shows depth of discernment or understanding; insightfully.
Albert Einstein wisely observed that we can't solve today's problems with the same thinking that created those problems.
Etymology
Origin of wisely
Explanation
When you do something wisely, you act in a thoughtful way, based on your own knowledge. Did you use your money wisely? Or did you spend it all on candy? Use this adverb for things people do that are (or appear to be) based on good judgment and experience. Smile wisely at your friend and they might think you know what you're talking about when you describe the UFO that landed in your back yard last night. But if they wisely ask you more questions and start to look skeptical, don't be surprised!
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.
Right now it’s underutilized, but within that bubble-sheet system is a world of possibility, argues Chason Gordon—so choose wisely.
From Slate ● Jul. 30, 2026
Speaking earlier on Wednesday, new Defence Secretary Wes Streeting said he wanted to ensure "every penny is spent wisely" and investment in the armed forces must come with "modernisation".
From BBC ● Jul. 22, 2026
“Malört is wisely focusing on the thing that makes it different, which is that it has a very polarizing taste.”
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 14, 2026
But, those plants need to be planned well and used wisely, he said.
From Barron's ● Jul. 13, 2026
He wanted a woman to talk to, one to whom he could tell all his thoughts; and he wanted her to talk to him, warmly, wisely and intimately.
From "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn" by Betty Smith
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
