Wisdom is a valued trait, often described through various idioms in the English language. These idioms reflect the depth of knowledge and experience that characterize a wise individual. Here are 20 idioms that capture the essence of wisdom, each with a brief meaning and an example sentence.
1. Wise as an owl
Meaning: Very wise
Example: Grandma is wise as an owl.
2. Older and wiser
Meaning: More experienced
Example: With age, he became older and wiser.
3. Knowledge is power
Meaning: Knowledge grants influence
Example: She believes that knowledge is power.
4. The wisdom of Solomon
Meaning: Great wisdom
Example: He acted with the wisdom of Solomon.
5. A word to the wise
Meaning: Advice for the knowledgeable
Example: A word to the wise is sufficient.
6. Wise beyond one’s years
Meaning: Very mature
Example: She’s wise beyond her years.
7. Common sense
Meaning: Practical judgment
Example: Use your common sense here.
8. Pearls of wisdom
Meaning: Valuable advice
Example: He shared pearls of wisdom with us.
9. Street smart
Meaning: Practical intelligence
Example: He’s very street smart.
10. Old head on young shoulders
Meaning: Mature for age
Example: He’s an old head on young shoulders.
11. Tried and tested
Meaning: Proven reliable
Example: This method is tried and tested.
12. The voice of reason
Meaning: Sensible person
Example: She was the voice of reason in the debate.
13. Caution is the parent of safety
Meaning: Being cautious ensures safety
Example: Remember, caution is the parent of safety.
14. To learn wisdom by the follies of others
Meaning: Learn from others’ mistakes
Example: He learns wisdom by the follies of others.
15. Mind your Ps and Qs
Meaning: Be careful and precise
Example: Always mind your Ps and Qs at work.
16. Hindsight is 20/20
Meaning: Past decisions are clear
Example: Hindsight is 20/20, but it’s too late now.
17. The pen is mightier than the sword
Meaning: Words over violence
Example: He believes the pen is mightier than the sword.
18. Live and learn
Meaning: Learn from experiences
Example: We all live and learn.
19. Once bitten, twice shy
Meaning: Cautious after bad experience
Example: He’s once bitten, twice shy with investments.
20. A wise man changes his mind
Meaning: Wisdom in flexibility
Example: A wise man changes his mind when needed.
