Inklingo

prudencia

proo-DEN-syah/pɾuˈden.sja/

prudencia means prudence in Spanish (wise decision-making).

prudence, caution

Also: discretion, wisdom
NounfB1
A person carefully testing the stability of a wooden bridge with their foot before crossing a small stream.

📝 In Action

Debes manejar con mucha prudencia cuando hay niebla.

A2

You must drive with great caution when it is foggy.

La prudencia es necesaria antes de tomar una decisión importante.

B1

Prudence is necessary before making an important decision.

Actuó con prudencia y no le contó a nadie el secreto.

B2

He acted with discretion and didn't tell anyone the secret.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • cautela (caution)
  • sensatez (common sense/wisdom)

Antonyms

  • imprudencia (recklessness)
  • temeridad (rashness)

Common Collocations

  • con prudenciawith caution
  • falta de prudencialack of prudence
  • pedir prudenciato ask for caution

Idioms & Expressions

  • La prudencia es la madre de la seguridadBeing careful is the best way to stay safe

Translate to Spanish

Words that translate to "prudencia" in Spanish:

cautiondiscretionprudencewisdom

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: prudencia

Question 1 of 3

Which of these is the most natural way to say 'He drives cautiously' in Spanish?

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family
prudente(cautious/prudent)Adjective
imprudencia(recklessness)Noun
prudentemente(prudently)Adverb
🎵 Rhymes
📚 Etymology

From the Latin word 'prudentia,' which was a shortened version of 'providentia,' meaning 'foreseeing' or 'looking ahead.'

First recorded: 13th century

Cognates (Related words)

English: prudenceFrench: prudence

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is 'prudencia' different from 'cuidado'?

Yes. While 'cuidado' simply means 'care,' 'prudencia' implies wisdom and thinking about the future consequences of your actions. It's a deeper kind of care.

Can 'prudencia' be a name?

Historically, yes! 'Prudencia' was a traditional given name for women, though it is quite rare and considered old-fashioned today.

How do I say 'be careful' using this word?

You would usually say 'ten prudencia' (have prudence) or 'actúa con prudencia' (act with prudence).