prudent
Prudent (adj) means Careful and sensible, especially about avoiding unnecessary risk. Example: “It would be prudent to back up your files before updating the software.”
How to use prudent
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSensible and cautious, thinking ahead before acting.
Not related to "prude," despite looking similar — prudent is about wisdom and caution, not modesty.
Word forms
more prudent comparative, most prudent superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
It would be _____ to back up your files before updating the software.
Etymology
From Old French prudent, from Latin prudens, a contraction of providens, "foreseeing" — related to providence.
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for prudent
See all rhymes for prudent →Frequently asked questions
What does “prudent” mean?
The word “prudent” means careful and sensible, especially about avoiding unnecessary risk. In plain terms, sensible and cautious, thinking ahead before acting.
How do you pronounce “prudent”?
“Prudent” is pronounced PROO-duhnt (/ˈpɹu.dənt/ in IPA).
How do you use “prudent” in a sentence?
Here is “prudent” used in a sentence: “It would be prudent to back up your files before updating the software.”
What is the opposite of “prudent”?
The opposite of “prudent” — its antonyms — are imprudent and incontinent.
What part of speech is “prudent”?
“Prudent” is an adjective.
Where does the word “prudent” come from?
The word “prudent” comes from Latin. From Old French prudent, from Latin prudens, a contraction of providens, "foreseeing" — related to providence.
Is “prudent” a common word?
“Prudent” is an uncommon word in modern English.
Featured in
Vocabulary lists that include prudent: