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.
AI can have the same effect on writing if writers use it wisely.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 17, 2026
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
Celtic's wage bill and financial outlay on transfer fees in recent years point towards money being spent, but perhaps not being spent wisely.
From BBC ● Jul. 28, 2026
In your 70s, the focus gradually shifts from building wealth to using it wisely.
From MarketWatch ● Jul. 27, 2026
Most of the people in my village finally decided that the man had chosen wisely, but everyone kept talking about what the tortoise had said.
From "Lost Boy, Lost Girl" by John Bul Dau
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.
