Meaning and Usage
The word 賢明 (けんめい) is a formal adjective meaning "wise," "prudent," or "intelligent." It is often used to describe decisions, judgments, or people who show good sense and careful thought. It carries a positive nuance of thoughtful wisdom rather than mere intelligence.
Common Contexts
You will frequently see 賢明 used in formal or written Japanese, such as business settings, news reports, or polite conversations. It often describes actions or choices that are sensible and well-considered.
Collocations and Patterns
- 賢明な判断 (けんめいなはんだん): wise judgment
- 賢明な選択 (けんめいなせんたく): prudent choice
- 賢明にも (けんめいにも): wisely (adverbial use to emphasize prudence)
Usage Tips
When using 賢明, it implies that the person or decision is not only intelligent but also careful and sensible. Avoid confusing it with words that only mean "smart" or "clever" without the nuance of prudence. It is more formal than casual words like 賢い (かしこい).
Common Mistake
Learners sometimes use 賢明 in casual conversations where simpler words like 賢い or すごい might be more natural. Reserve 賢明 for formal or serious contexts to sound natural and appropriate.