ENGLISH
REFERENCE

word to the wise

idiom
Meaning

A brief piece of advice.


Origin

disputed origin

From a longer saying: "A word to the wise is sufficient".

Examples
SIMPLE

A word to the wise: check the weather before you leave.

CONTEXTUAL

A word to the wise, you should probably finish that report before the meeting starts.

COMPLEX

As a word to the wise, he suggested that she diversify her investments before the market became too volatile.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    bad word

    A vulgar word.

  2. 02

    breathe a word

    To divulge even part of a secret (usually used with a negative).

  3. 03

    dicky

    [Cockney slang]word

  4. 04

    dirty word

    The name of a topic that a person prefers not to hear or discuss.

  5. 05

    from the word go

    From the very beginning; from the outset; immediately upon starting.

  6. 06

    get the word out

    To make some information more widely known.

  7. 07

    hang on every word

    To be completely attentive to what another person is saying.

  8. 08

    have a quiet word

    To speak to someone in private.

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