# nous

/ˈnus/ (US) · /nˈuːz/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/nous
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

the ability to think clearly and make good judgments. It is a more formal or philosophical way to say 'common sense'.

For teachers: the faculty of reason or common sense; the ability to make sound judgments. Often used in philosophical contexts to distinguish between practical wisdom and abstract logic.

## Examples

- He has a lot of nous and always knows the right thing to do.
- The manager praised the team for their nous in identifying the problem before it caused any major damage.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.