Is sagacity a common word in everyday English?

No, it is fairly formal and less common in daily speech.

What is the difference between sagacity and wisdom?

Wisdom is more common and broad. Sagacity sounds more formal and stresses good judgment.

Can I use sagacity in business writing?

Yes, but it sounds formal. It fits reports, praise, and serious writing.

Is sagacity positive or negative?

It is positive. It praises smart, careful judgment.

← Dictionary

sagacity

/səˈɡæs.ə.ti/

IELTSAcademic

noun

Sagacity means the ability to make good judgments and understand things well. It often suggests wise thinking and practical insight.

Her sagacity helped the team avoid a costly mistake.
The manager showed sagacity in a difficult situation.
He is respected for his sagacity and calm judgment.

Adinary Nuance

Sagacity is close to wisdom, insight, and discernment, but it sounds more formal and literary. Use it when you want to praise someone's careful judgment, not just general knowledge. It often suggests a smart, quiet ability to see what matters.

In other languages

Vietnamese: sự sáng suốt
Spanish: sagacidad
Chinese: 睿智
Japanese: 賢明さ
Korean: 현명함

Etymology

From Latin sagacitas, from sagax meaning 'wise, keen, quick to see'. The word entered English in the 16th century.

Common phrases

political sagacitypractical sagacitygreat sagacity

Synonyms

wisdom insight discernment judgment

Frequently asked questions

Is sagacity a common word in everyday English?: No, it is fairly formal and less common in daily speech.
What is the difference between sagacity and wisdom?: Wisdom is more common and broad. Sagacity sounds more formal and stresses good judgment.
Can I use sagacity in business writing?: Yes, but it sounds formal. It fits reports, praise, and serious writing.
Is sagacity positive or negative?: It is positive. It praises smart, careful judgment.