WordHive Learning Dictionary

Unwise

adjective

Unwise means not wise or not a good idea.

6 letters 2 syllables

What does Unwise mean?

Unwise means not wise or not a good idea.

Dictionary definition

Unwise means not showing good judgment or careful thinking.

Example sentences

Unwise in a sentence

easy

It is unwise to run on wet floors.

medium

The group made an unwise choice when they ignored the directions.

hard

A decision can be unwise even if it seems exciting at first, especially when it ignores clear evidence.

Writing practice

Ready to write your own? Study the examples, then practice unwise in a sentence with Sentence Builder checklist feedback.

Quick practice
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Practice the meaning of Unwise

Answer three quick questions about its meaning and related words.

Practice 1

What does unwise mean?

Practice 2

Which word is closest in meaning to unwise?

Practice 3

Which word is a useful contrast for unwise?

Pronunciation coach
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Unwise

Voice settings
Sounds like

un · wyz · strongest beat: wyz

Synonyms

Words like Unwise

foolishUse when a choice shows poor judgment.
carelessUse when someone does not think carefully enough.
Antonyms

Opposite words

wiseUse when a choice shows good judgment.
thoughtfulUse when someone thinks carefully before acting.
Synonym practice

Want to practice unwise synonyms in context? Try a Synonym Search question like "It was imprudent to start painting without a plan," then compare close word choices. Practice unwise synonyms.

Word family

Unwise word family

adjective

unwise

Not showing good judgment.

adverb

unwisely

In an unwise way.

noun

wisdom

Good judgment and understanding.

Related words
Student support

Understand Unwise

Hint for students

Unwise describes a choice that does not show good judgment. It often appears with actions that ignore risks, facts, or better advice.

Common mix-up

Unwise is not the same as unlucky. Unwise focuses on the choice; unlucky focuses on chance.

Try it in class or at home

Write one sentence that shows unwise without using the word unwise. Then underline the clue words that show poor judgment or not thinking carefully. Example: The student ignored the warning sign and stepped onto the slippery floor. Clue words: ignored, warning sign, slippery floor Now try your own sentence. Ask: Does my sentence show a choice that lacks good judgment?

Teacher prompt

Ask students to explain this model sentence: "It is unwise to run on wet floors." Why does unwise fit better than careful?