prudent

/ˈpruːd(ə)nt/adjective

Careful and sensible, especially when planning ahead.

Example sentences

“A prudent driver slows down well before an icy bridge.”
“It would be prudent to save some money before you quit your job.”

Beloved of financial writing: prudent investors, prudent saving. The opposite 'imprudent' survives mainly in formal prose.

Featured as word of the day on June 15, 2026.

Synonyms for prudent

sensible
wise
careful
cautious
judicious

Antonyms

imprudent
reckless
rash

Find it in: Positive words, Words to describe a person.

Related words

circumspectCareful to think about every side of a situation before acting or speaking.discreetCareful about what you say or do so as to protect privacy and avoid embarrassing anyone.frugalCareful not to waste money or resources; spending only what is needed.impetuousActing suddenly on impulse and with force, without thinking things through.punctualArriving or doing things exactly at the agreed time.resplendentStrikingly beautiful and impressive, often because of rich colours or shine.