judicious

[joo-dish-uhs]

adjective

1. using or showing judgment as to action or practical expediency; discreet, prudent, or politic.

   judicious use of one's money.

   Antonyms: imprudent

2. having, exercising, or characterized by good or discriminating judgment; wise, sensible, or well-advised.

   a judicious selection of documents.

   Synonyms: considered, sagacious, sound, sound, sober, reasonable, rational, rational
   Antonyms: unreasonable, silly

judicious

/ dʒuːˈdɪʃəs /

adjective

1. having or proceeding from good judgment

Other Word Forms

• judiciously adverb
• judiciousness noun
• overjudicious adjective
• overjudiciousness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of judicious¹

First recorded in 1590–1600; from Latin jūdici(um) “judgment” ( judge, -ium ) + -ous; compare Italian giudizioso, French judicieux

Synonym Study

See practical. See moderate. Judicious, judicial both refer to a balanced and wise judgment. Judicious implies the possession and use of discerning and discriminating judgment: a judicious use of one's time. Judicial has connotations of judgments made in a courtroom and refers to a fair and impartial kind of judgment: cool and judicial in examining the facts.

Example Sentences

“When the Epstein records are turned over to the public, which we must do as quickly as possible, we have to also be very judicious and careful about protecting the innocent,” he said.

From Salon

Again, another judicious selection that accurately conveys the energy and feeling of the entire set of songs.

From Salon

Indeed, it’s more judicious in tone, and far more fair-minded, than most of the Zohran freakout among centrist Democrats and mainstream U.S. media pundits, let alone the virulent racism and Islamophobia of Republicans.

From Salon

“The sheriff is to be saluted, not condemned for the very judicious use of his power that he’s outlined today,” Wagner said.

From Los Angeles Times

Trends such as underconsumption core, loud budgeting, soft saving and the dupe economy are helping Gen Z embrace their frugal, minimalist side and be vocal and proud of their judicious spending habits.

From Salon

Related Words

• astute 
• careful 
• cautious 
• circumspect 
• considerate 
• expedient 
• prudent 
• rational 
• reasonable 
• sane 
• sensible 
• shrewd 
• skillful 
• sober 
• thorough