noun

prudence

/ˈpruːdəns/ · say it: PROO·dens

careful good judgment

In Nuance & Precision

In more detail

1. (noun) the quality of being careful and sensible in making decisions, especially to avoid risks or harm

2. (noun) the ability to think about future consequences before acting

Examples

1. She showed great prudence by saving money for emergencies.
2. It was prudence that prevented him from investing all his savings in one risky company.

How to use prudence

Prudence is a formal, somewhat old-fashioned term emphasizing careful judgment and foresight, particularly in avoiding unnecessary risks. It carries a positive connotation and is often used in financial, legal, or moral contexts. Unlike caution, which emphasizes wariness, prudence emphasizes sensible decision-making grounded in wisdom and consideration of consequences.

Common phrases

exercise prudence
with prudence
prudence dictates
prudence suggests
financial prudence

Synonyms

caution · circumspection · discretion · wisdom · wariness

Opposites

recklessness · imprudence · carelessness

Word family

prudent (adjective) · prudently (adverb) · imprudent (adjective)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse prudence with prudishness (excessive modesty about sexual or bodily matters), which is a different concept entirely.

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