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

Wisely, Churchill did not write back, but he did return the check, uncashed, with his compliments.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 4, 2026

Wisely, the two childhood friends stuck to their guns.

From BBC • Jun. 23, 2025

Wisely, White evolves this viewpoint with each fresh turn, fine-tuning parts to fit each new environment and lending additional insight and sympathy to those catering to their underappreciative visitors.

From Salon • Feb. 16, 2025

The event was an offshoot of a website called “Bijak Memilih,” or Choose Wisely, that caters to young voters.

From New York Times • Feb. 13, 2024

Wisely, it turned out, for as he dropped a last pinch of sand into the fourth socket and stood back, he found Pai at his elbow.

From "The Golden Goblet" by Eloise Jarvis McGraw

Related Words

• carefully
• intelligently
• judiciously
• sensibly
• shrewdly