Translation guide
The concept of prudence involves careful judgment, foresight, and discretion. In Japanese, it is expressed through nouns, adjectives, and verbs that emphasize caution, thoughtfulness, and avoiding rash actions.
The quality of being careful and thinking about the future before acting
The most common and direct equivalent for 'prudence' as a noun, meaning carefulness and discretion.
彼は慎重な判断で知られている。
He is known for his prudent judgment.
Emphasizes wariness and caution against potential dangers, often used for personal safety.
彼女の用心深さが詐欺を防いだ。
Her prudence prevented the fraud.
Conveys thoughtfulness and deep consideration, often in intellectual or moral contexts.
彼の思慮深さが良い結果を生んだ。
His prudence led to good results.
Behaving in a careful, deliberate manner to avoid mistakes or risks
A common phrase meaning 'to act prudently'.
不況時には慎重に行動すべきだ。
You should act with prudence during a recession.
To be cautious or on guard, often used in warnings.
夜道は用心してください。
Please be prudent when walking at night.
Careful management of money and resources
Thriftiness and economical living, a key aspect of financial prudence.
彼は倹約家で、無駄遣いをしない。
He is prudent with money and doesn't waste it.
Saving or economizing, often used in daily life.
The classical virtue of practical wisdom and moral discernment
Wisdom and prudence combined, often used in philosophical or ethical discussions.
リーダーには賢明さが求められる。
Leaders are required to have prudence.
Wisdom, often implying practical judgment and prudence.
彼の知恵が危機を救った。
His prudence saved the situation.
慎重 (shinchou) is the most general term for prudence, emphasizing careful deliberation. 用心深い (youjinbukai) focuses more on wariness and guarding against potential harm. Use 慎重 for decision-making and 用心深い for personal safety.
There is no single Japanese word that covers all nuances of 'prudence'. Avoid using obscure terms like 思慮分別 (shiryo funbetsu) in everyday conversation; it sounds overly formal and archaic.
彼女はその問題を慎重に扱った。
She handled the matter with prudence.
光熱費を節約するのは賢明だ。
It is prudent to save on utility bills.