Is wise the same as smart?

Not exactly. Smart means mentally quick or clever. Wise means having good judgment and making careful choices.

Is wise formal or informal?

It is neutral and common in everyday English. It also appears often in writing and advice.

Can I say 'a wise person' in IELTS writing?

Yes. It is a natural and clear phrase in academic and general writing.

← Dictionary

wise

/waɪz/

IELTSAcademic

adjective

Having good judgment and experience. A wise person makes careful choices and understands what is likely to happen. It can also mean sensible or practical.

That was a wise decision.
My grandmother is very wise.
Be wise with your money.

Adinary Nuance

Wise is close to smart, intelligent, and sensible, but it focuses on good judgment, not just mental ability. Someone can be intelligent without being wise. Wise is often used for advice, choices, and people who think carefully over time.

In other languages

Vietnamese: khôn ngoan
Spanish: sabio
Chinese: 明智
Japanese: 賢明
Korean: 현명한

Etymology

Old English wīs meant 'wise, knowledgeable, prudent.' It comes from a Germanic root that also gave related words in other Germanic languages.

Common phrases

a wise choicewise advicewise wordsthe wise old man

Synonyms

sensible prudent judicious practical

Frequently asked questions

Is wise the same as smart?: Not exactly. Smart means mentally quick or clever. Wise means having good judgment and making careful choices.
Is wise formal or informal?: It is neutral and common in everyday English. It also appears often in writing and advice.
Can I say 'a wise person' in IELTS writing?: Yes. It is a natural and clear phrase in academic and general writing.
What is the noun form of wise?: The noun is wisdom.