prudence
pronunciation
How to pronounce prudence in British English:
UK ['pru:dns]
How to pronounce prudence in American English:
US [ˈprudəns]
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- Noun:
- discretion in practical affairs
- knowing how to avoid embarrassment or distress
Word Origin
- prudence (n.)
- mid-14c. (c. 1200 as a surname), mid-14c., "intelligence; discretion, foresight; wisdom to see what is suitable or profitable;" also one of the four cardinal virtues, "wisdom to see what is virtuous;" from Old French prudence (13c.) and directly from Latin prudentia "a foreseeing, foresight, sagacity, practical judgment," contraction of providentia "foresight" (see providence). Secondary sense of "wisdom" (late 14c.) is preserved in jurisprudence.
- Prudence
- fem. proper name; see prudence.
Antonym
Example
- 1. At this point , prudence dictates that we retreat .
- 2. His imperative was to prove labour 's economic prudence .
- 3. Argentines should note that brazil 's centre-left government has espoused fiscal prudence and free trade and welcomed foreign investment .
- 4. That has lessened the pressure for prudence .
- 5. Prudence in one institution might then inspire panic in another .