wisely

American  

[wahyz-lee] / ˈwaɪz li /

adverb

1. 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.

2. 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.

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Etymology

Origin of wisely

wise ¹ ( def. ) + -ly

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

Yet it wisely imitates neither the structure nor tone of its noble predecessor.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jul. 7, 2026

Use exhaust fans wisely: Run your kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans briefly after cooking or showering.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 29, 2026

But some have warned that the government needs to speed up complex procurement processes to make sure the money is wisely spent.

From Barron's • Jun. 24, 2026

And crucially it will ensure the money spent is spent wisely and used to back jobs and growth here in Britain.

From BBC • Jun. 11, 2026

Two women in scrubs were waiting with a gurney because Reggie had wisely called ahead.

From "Millionaires for the Month" by Stacey McAnulty

Related Words

• carefully
• intelligently
• judiciously
• sensibly
• shrewdly