Sagacious

suh-GAY-shuhs

/səˈɡeɪʃəs/

Adjective

Meaning

  • Sagacious describes a person who shows keen mental discernment, sound judgment, and wisdom gained through experience.
  • It refers to the ability to make accurate decisions, especially in complex or uncertain situations.

Examples

  • The sagacious leader anticipated the problem long before it occurred.
  • Her sagacious advice helped the company avoid financial loss.
  • The judge was known for his sagacious understanding of human behavior.
  • Making such a decision required a sagacious mind and years of experience.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms Antonyms
Wise Shrewd Astute Insightful Judicious Prudent Perceptive Foolish Unwise Naive Shortsighted Imprudent Reckless

Word Forms

  • Sagacious (adjective)
  • Sagacity (noun)
  • Sagaciously (adverb)
  • Sagaciousness (noun, less common)

Origin / Etymology

The word sagacious comes from the Latin sagax, meaning “keen-scented” or “wise,” derived from sagire, meaning “to perceive keenly.” Historically, it implied sharp perception, much like an animal’s ability to track or sense accurately.

Grammar Information

  • Used only as an adjective
  • Commonly modifies nouns related to people, decisions, judgments, leaders, or advice
  • Often used in formal, academic, and literary contexts
  • Example: ✔ a sagacious observer, ✘ very sagaciously person (incorrect structure)

Translations

  • Hindi: विवेकी, बुद्धिमान
  • Spanish: sagaz
  • French: sagace
  • German: scharfsinnig
  • Arabic: فَطِن
  • Chinese (Simplified): 睿智的
  • Portuguese: sagaz

Idioms & Phrases

  • Sagacious judgment – wise and well-reasoned decision-making
  • Sagacious mind – a mind capable of deep insight and foresight
  • Sagacious observer – someone who perceives details accurately