prudence

noun

pru·​dence ˈprü-dᵊn(t)s 

1

: the ability to govern and discipline oneself by the use of reason

2

: sagacity or shrewdness in the management of affairs

3

: skill and good judgment in the use of resources

4

: caution or circumspection as to danger or risk

Synonyms

• alertness
• care
• carefulness
• caution
• cautiousness
• chariness
• circumspection
• gingerliness
• guardedness
• heedfulness
• wariness

Examples of prudence in a Sentence

He always exercises prudence with his finances.

advised to use some old-fashioned prudence when agreeing to meet face-to-face with an online acquaintance

Recent Examples on the Web

What Are The Candidates Missing? Healthcare spending has ballooned to levels that defy fiscal prudence, but healthcare dollars aren’t going to the people who provide it. —Richard Menger Md Mpa, Forbes, 2 Nov. 2024

The market may have wanted a more upbeat outlook for 2025 to support analysts’ projections of low-double-digit percentage earnings growth, but Danaher is known for its conservatism and prudence regarding forward guidance. —Jeff Marks, CNBC, 23 Oct. 2024

Given the current economic climate, fiscal prudence is more critical than ever. —Michael Slaten, Orange County Register, 4 Oct. 2024

But prudence is the leading one, where conservatism is concerned. —Jay Nordlinger, National Review, 24 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin prudentia, alteration of providentia — more at providence

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

prudence

noun

pru·​dence ˈprüd-ᵊn(t)s 

1

: the ability to govern and discipline oneself by the use of reason

2

: skill and good judgment in the management of affairs

Legal Definition

prudence

noun

pru·​dence ˈprüd-ᵊns 

: attentiveness to possible hazard : caution or circumspection as to danger or risk

a person of ordinary prudence