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.
The gallery was the first to hold public exhibitions on many subjects, from Chinese basket weaving to puppets and knots, but the curators wisely avoid covering every past show.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 17, 2026
If you don’t choose wisely, you might get hit with surprise bills for your medications, or learn too late that your doctors are out of network.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 15, 2026
A moratorium can’t prevent students from using ChatGPT and its ilk on home devices, but it does reduce opportunities to show them how to use it wisely.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 14, 2026
You don’t want your precious donations to be swallowed up by administrative fees. Guidestar.org, Charitynavigator.org and Give.org, which is affiliated with the Better Business Bureau, all aim to help donors give wisely.
From MarketWatch ● Sep. 3, 2026
Several dozen warriors lowered their spears and made a ring around them, wisely keeping out of striking distance of Percy’s sword.
From "The Mark of Athena" by Rick Riordan
Random Word
Spin the wheel and learn a new word!
Get a wordDefinitions 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.
