Prudent Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈprʌdnt/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Adjective

Definition

Showing careful thought and planning beforehand; cautious and sensible in one’s actions and decisions.

Examples

• She was a prudent investor, never risking more than she could afford to lose.
• It’s prudent to keep a backup of-important files on a separate drive.

Synonyms

• Cautionary

Antonyms

• Rash
• Sudden

Etymology

The word “Prudent” comes from the Latin “prudens”, meaning wise or sensible.

Usage Notes

Use “Prudent” to describe actions or decisions that are thoughtful and careful, avoiding risk and potential consequences.

Cultural References

In finance, “Prudent” is often used to describe investors who make informed and cautious decisions.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• A prudent investment
• To be too prudent

Related Words or Phrases

• Prudence
• Wisdom

Collocations

• Prudent decision
• Prudent use of resources

Frequency of Use

The word “Prudent” is commonly used in formal and professional contexts, such as business, finance, and academia.

Common Misspellings

• Preudent
• Prudental