noun
wisdom and good judgment; practical wisdom
Refers to the combination of knowledge (知恵) and the ability to make sound, sensible decisions (分別). Often used in contexts emphasizing mature, level-headed thinking.
彼は若いのに知恵分別がある。
He has wisdom and good judgment despite his youth.
知恵分別を働かせて行動しなさい。
Act with wisdom and discretion.
分別 alone means 'discernment' or 'good judgment'; 知恵分別 adds the nuance of wisdom or knowledge, making it a more comprehensive term for mature, sensible thinking.
知恵 alone means 'wisdom' or 'intelligence'; 知恵分別 combines this with practical judgment, emphasizing applied wisdom rather than just knowledge.
Compound of 知恵 (wisdom) and 分別 (discernment, judgment). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the combination is straightforward and transparent.