Prudence

¹

[prood-ns]

noun

1. a female given name.

prudence

²

[prood-ns]

noun

1. the quality or fact of being prudent, or wise in practical affairs, as by providing for the future.

   Antonyms: rashness

2. caution with regard to practical matters; discretion.

3. regard for one's own interests.

4. provident care in the management of resources; economy; frugality.

prudence

/ ˈpruːdəns /

noun

1. caution in practical affairs; discretion or circumspection

2. care taken in the management of one's resources

3. consideration for one's own interests

4. the condition or quality of being prudent

Other Word Forms

• nonprudence noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of Prudence¹

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English, from Middle French, from Latin prūdentia. See prudent, -ence

Synonym Study

Prudence, calculation, foresight, forethought imply attempted provision against possible contingencies. Prudence is care, caution, and good judgment, as well as wisdom in looking ahead: sober prudence in handling one's affairs. Calculation suggests a disposition to get a large return for as small an outlay as possible and willingness to benefit at the expense of others: cold calculation. Foresight implies a prudent looking ahead rather far into the future: clear foresight in planning. Forethought emphasizes the adequacy of preparation for the future: Careful forethought helped him deal with the emergency.

Example Sentences

Takaichi has called for “responsible proactive fiscal policy,” but it remains to be seen how her administration will balance more spending with fiscal prudence.

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The analysts say the softer-than-expected margin outlook reflects the company’s prudence in managing market expectations, which has helped its results consistently beat forecasts in recent quarters.

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"The points are the most important thing, I don't want to talk about mal-intent, just prudence. A little more prudence would be good for everyone."

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The Tory leader will also try to reclaim the mantle of financial prudence from Labour, which has sought to position itself as the party of sound money and economic stability since winning power.

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"The notion that they're devoted to fiscal prudence is not borne out by their actions."

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Related Words

• austerity 
• conservatism 
• diligence 
• discretion 
• foresight 
• frugality 
• judgment 
• tact 
• vigilance 
• wisdom