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foolish Synonyms

Another word for foolish

Choosing another word for foolish depends on context, so the 16 synonyms and similar words below are separated across 2 exact definitions and ranked by match strength.
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• adjective (Context 1)

Lacking good sense, sound judgment, or foresight; unwise.

Usage Example

"It would be unwise to ignore the early warning signs of economic instability."

Strongest
unwise
imprudent
ill-advised
senseless
Strong
silly
reckless
foolhardy
shortsighted
thoughtless
irrational

• adjective (Context 2)

Feeling or appearing embarrassed, awkward, or ridiculous, especially after making a mistake.

Usage Example

"He felt rather sheepish when he realized he had been arguing for the exact same point."

Strongest
sheepish
embarrassed
Strong
ridiculous
silly
awkward
abashed
mortified

Opposites of foolish

The opposite of foolish shifts depending on context. Common opposites include:

wise
sensible
prudent
dignified
judicious
composed
poised
sagacious
See all opposites of foolish

• Nearby Words

foolery
foolhardiness
foolhardy
foolish
foolishly
foolishness
foolproof

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Foolish. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/foolish
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