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prudence

noun
pru·​dence | \ ˈprü-dᵊn(t)s How to pronounce prudence (audio) \

Definition of prudence

1 : the ability to govern and discipline oneself by the use of reason
2 : sagacity or shrewdness in the management of affairs
3 : skill and good judgment in the use of resources
4 : caution or circumspection as to danger or risk
Synonyms & Antonyms Example Sentences Learn More about prudence

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Examples of prudence in a Sentence

He always exercises prudence with his finances. advised to use some old-fashioned prudence when agreeing to meet face-to-face with an online acquaintance

Recent Examples on the Web

 The seat of Syrian commerce and enterprise, Aleppo has long been considered a city brimming with pragmatism and prudence. — Brian Stewart, National Review, "For Sama: A Chronicle of the Syrian Tragedy," 10 Aug. 2019 But Trump has thrown prudence and discretion in dealing with the Fed to the winds. — Edward Lotterman, Twin Cities, "Edward Lotterman: Hooray for complexity in the Federal Reserve’s structure," 3 Aug. 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'prudence.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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First Known Use of prudence

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

History and Etymology for prudence

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin prudentia, alteration of providentia — more at providence

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More Definitions for prudence

prudence

noun
How to pronounce prudence (audio)

English Language Learners Definition of prudence

: careful good judgment that allows someone to avoid danger or risks

See the full definition for prudence in the English Language Learners Dictionary

prudence

noun
pru·​dence | \ ˈprü-dᵊns How to pronounce prudence (audio) \

Kids Definition of prudence

: careful good judgment that allows someone to avoid danger or risks

prudence

noun
pru·​dence | \ ˈprüd-ᵊns How to pronounce prudence (audio) \

Legal Definition of prudence

: attentiveness to possible hazard : caution or circumspection as to danger or risk a person of ordinary prudence

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More from Merriam-Webster on prudence

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for prudence

Spanish Central: Translation of prudence

Nglish: Translation of prudence for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of prudence for Arabic Speakers

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