Worldly-wise

Worldly-wise describes a person exhibiting shrewdness and practical understanding of the world, especially regarding social situations, business dealings, and human nature. It implies a level of experience, sophistication, and a sometimes cynical perspective gained through life's trials and interactions. A Worldly-wise individual possesses a keen awareness of social dynamics, possesses self-control, a realistic assessment of possibilities, and the ability to navigate complex scenarios with finesse and strategic thinking. They tend to be less naive and more perceptive, having learned from previous mistakes, and often demonstrate an ability to anticipate potential pitfalls. They are not easily fooled and are often able to see through deception, therefore, making it easier to take calculated risks with the intent of achieving their goals. This understanding may be rooted in a deep understanding of human flaws and motivations.

Worldly-wise meaning with examples

• After years in international diplomacy, Ambassador Davies was known for being worldly-wise. He could effortlessly negotiate sensitive treaties and foresee political shifts, making him an invaluable asset. His colleagues often sought his counsel, knowing he possessed a seasoned perspective honed by countless global encounters. He never seemed to be easily swayed or duped, his experience allowing him to quickly find a hidden agenda.
• The experienced detective, hardened by years spent chasing criminals, exhibited a Worldly-wise cynicism. He had seen the worst of humanity and understood the nuances of crime and deception, therefore, always assessing a situation with skepticism. His sharp intuition and ability to read people like a book allowed him to solve seemingly impossible cases, earning him the respect of his peers and the fear of those on the wrong side of the law.
• The seasoned businesswoman, having built her empire from the ground up, had grown Worldly-wise regarding finances and investments. She could identify promising opportunities and avoid high-risk ventures with ease, and with years of experience, she possessed an instinctive ability to anticipate market trends, her foresight enabling her to successfully guide her company through economic downturns.
• The protagonist of the novel, a young woman raised in sheltered circumstances, underwent a transformative journey and became Worldly-wise, and therefore saw things from a different perspective. Through a series of life-altering experiences, she gained a deep understanding of human nature, her perspective shifted, and a newfound ability to navigate the complexities of social interactions. She quickly became more astute in her judgments and less trusting of appearances.
• Despite his youth, the aspiring entrepreneur demonstrated a remarkable level of Worldly-wise maturity. He possessed a sharp business sense, a realistic outlook, and displayed an uncanny ability to learn from his mistakes. His mentors were impressed by his strategic planning and calculated risk-taking, believing his pragmatic and astute approach would make him a success in the volatile world of start-ups.