Well-advised

adj. thoughtful, capable formal

What it means

Based on sound guidance or sensible judgment about likely consequences.

Reach for it when approving a choice as prudent before or after its effects are known

The hikers were well-advised to turn back before the exposed ridge iced over.

Words to choose between 8

By register, from playful at the top to literary at the bottom. Tap a word to see when it fits.
playful
everyday
professional
formal
  • playful

    a good call

    Fits when a successful choice should sound relaxed and current

    Careful The phrase judges the result informally and is weak when documenting professional advice.

  • everyday

    sensible

    Fits when practical common judgment is enough

    Careful Sensible is milder and leaves unclear whether advice or analysis informed the choice.

  • everyday

    smart

    Fits when direct conversational approval is wanted

    Careful Smart can mean clever or fashionable and feels casual in formal counsel.

  • everyday

    wise

    Fits when sound judgment deserves broad personal approval

    Careful Wise can praise the decision-maker's character, while well-advised can credit outside counsel.

  • professional

    judicious

    Fits when careful discrimination among options produced the decision

    Careful Judicious is too elevated for a simple everyday precaution.

  • professional

    sound

    Fits when a plan or recommendation rests on reliable reasoning

    Careful Sound evaluates quality but does not convey the caution of acting on good advice.

  • formal

    astute

    Fits when sharp perception of the situation deserves emphasis

    Careful Astute suggests cleverness and can miss ethical or cautious judgment.

  • formal

    prudent

    Fits when careful avoidance of unnecessary risk is central

    Careful Prudent may sound overly cautious if the choice was bold but well supported.

Opposites 3

  • ill-advised
  • foolish
  • imprudent

Common phrases 3

  • well-advised decision

    Delaying the launch was a well-advised decision once the safety data changed.

  • would be well-advised

    Visitors would be well-advised to carry water beyond the last station.

  • well-advised choice

    A shorter contract proved a well-advised choice for the pilot program.

Definitions and examples are written for this site. How words are chosen Updated