I. noun
Synonyms: method 1, fashion, manner, mode, modus, system, technique, way
II. adjective
1.
having or exhibiting a capacity for discernment and the intelligent application of knowledge
to be wise is to use knowledge well
Synonyms: discerning, gnostic, insighted, insightful, knowing, knowledgeable, perceptive, sagacious, sage, sophic, wisehearted
Related Word: aware, grasping, intuitive, sensing; acute, keen, perspicacious; cogitative, contemplative, reflective, thoughtful; astute, sharp, shrewd
Contrasted words: dull, obtuse, slow, slow-witted; insensitive, unaware, unknowing
Antonyms: unwise
2.
exercising or involving sound judgment
wise management of scarce resources
Synonyms: judgmatic, judicious, prudent, sage, sane, sapient, sensible; compare shrewd
Related Word: canny, discreet, foresighted, provident; astute, perspicacious, sagacious, shrewd; alert, bright, intelligent, keen, smart
Contrasted words: careless, heedless, injudicious; improvident, imprudent, indiscreet, short-sighted
Antonyms: foolish, unwise
3.
Synonyms: expedient , advisable, politic, prudent, tactical
4.
shrewdly aware and subtly resourceful
a wise operator with his eye always on the main chance
Synonyms: canny, hep, knowing, nimble-witted, quick, quick-witted, sharp, sharp-witted, slick, smart; compare intelligent 2, shrewd
Related Word: cagey, foresighted, shrewd; artful, crafty, cunning, slippery, smooth, tricky, wily; steel-trap
Idioms: in the groove, not born yesterday, on the beam
Contrasted words: narrow, prim, puritanical, straitlaced; conservative, plodding, ||square
5.
presumptuously confident and self-assured
a bunch of wise kids tearing up the neighborhood
Synonyms: ||biggety, bold, bold-faced, cheeky, forward, fresh, impudent, nervy, pert, procacious, sassy, smart, smart-alecky
Related Word: arrogant, brash, cocky, insolent; flip, flippant, impertinent, lippy, saucy
Contrasted words: demure, mannerly, modest, proper; dull, priggish, stuffy