Synonyms for prudence
noun
caution, circumspection, judgment, providence, considerateness, judiciousness, sagacity, deliberation, wisdom, foresight, forethought, care, carefulness, frugality, watchfulness, precaution, heedfulness, heed, economy, husbandry, concern, conservatism, conservation, discrimination, cunning, vigilance, coolness, calculation, presence of mind; see also discretion 1, tact.
Antonyms carelessness*, imprudence, rashness.
See prudence in American Heritage Dictionary 4 Synonyms
prudence discretion foresight forethought circumspection
These nouns refer to the exercise of good judgment, common sense, and even caution, especially in the conduct of practical matters. Prudence is the most comprehensive: “She had been forced into prudence in her youth, she learned romance as she grew older” (Jane Austen).
Discretion suggests wise self-restraint, as in resisting a rash impulse: “The better part of valor is discretion” (Shakespeare).
Foresight implies the ability to foresee and make provision for what may happen: She had the foresight to make backups of her computer files.
Forethought suggests advance consideration of future eventualities: The empty refrigerator indicated a lack of forethought.
Circumspection implies discretion, as out of concern for moral or social repercussions: “The necessity of the times, more than ever, calls for our utmost circumspection” (Samuel Adams).
See prudence in Webster's New World Roget's A-Z Thesaurus II
noun
The exercise of good judgment or common sense in practical matters:
caution, circumspection, discretion, forehandedness, foresight, foresightedness, forethought, forethoughtfulness, precaution. See carefulCareful use of material resources:
economy, frugality, providence, thrift, thriftiness. See save
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