Sagacious
adjective /səˈɡeɪ.ʃəs/ — Having keen judgment and discernment
Definition
Having or showing good judgment, wisdom, and acute practical perception — the quality of seeing what matters and knowing what to do about it.
Beyond the definition
Wisdom that works. Sagacious people don't just know things — they know which things matter and how to act on that knowledge. It is wisdom applied to reality.
Origin & history
From Latin 'sagax' (of quick perception, sharp-scented) — from 'sagire' (to perceive keenly). The keen nose that finds what is hidden. Related to 'sage' (wise person).
Example sentences
Illustrative sentences for learning, not verified community posts or sourced quotations.
Her sagacious reading of the situation — three weeks before anyone else saw what was coming — saved the project.
A sagacious investor isn't necessarily smarter; they are more honest about what they don't know.
The sagacious parent gives advice only when it has been requested — and then only once.
Synonyms
wise, shrewd, perceptive, astute, discerning
Antonyms
foolish, obtuse, shortsighted
Related words
Sagacious vs wise
Sagacious implies a sharp, discerning ability to make good judgments, often in business or policy. Wise is a broader, more human term for long-term experience and moral depth.
Word in the Wild
See how this word appears in life, language and stories.
Illustrative sentences and imagined stories for learning — not verified sightings, interviews, or sourced quotations.
Fictional scene
Leader Reviewing Model
An experienced leader reviews a structural model with colleagues, showing an open, thoughtful expression during a consequential decision.
The leader's composed and attentive demeanor, combined with careful consideration, demonstrates the acute practical perception and good judgment essential to being sagacious.
Image credit: Wordspun · AI-generated conceptual illustration