gain wisdom

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gain wisdom" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it in a sentence like: "By reading books, I hope to gain wisdom."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

We gain wisdom by admitting how little we actually know.

The New York Times

In examining the person with disease, we gain wisdom about life".

The Guardian - Books

Echoing Osler, Sacks wrote: "In examining disease, we gain wisdom about anatomy and physiology and biology.

The Guardian - Books

Plenty of old people never do, but if you're going to gain wisdom, it'll take time.

The Guardian - Opinion

You hope as you get older that you'll gain wisdom, but wisdom doesn't just come from having lots of experiences.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

As you age, and as you gain wisdom in life, you realise where you made mistakes". He hadn't touched a guitar for "a couple of decades" when he discovered that his son had brought one into the house and was writing songs on it.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

He returns to the Grail King and this time, having gained wisdom, performs his duties correctly.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Even if you lost, you came to terms with it and gained wisdom.

WikiHow

I gained wisdom. "Maybe life was moving too fast for me.

The New York Times - Sports

I have read a lot about black holes and have gained wisdom of the subject.

Cornell University

You're supposed to keep going, from one thing to the next, gaining wisdom along the way.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "gain wisdom", consider specifying the source or method through which wisdom is acquired (e.g., "gain wisdom through experience", "gain wisdom from mentors").

Common error

Avoid using "gain wisdom" when you actually mean gaining intelligence or knowledge. Wisdom involves applying knowledge with good judgment, not just acquiring information.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gain wisdom" functions as a verb phrase, where "gain" is the main verb and "wisdom" is the direct object. It describes the action of acquiring wisdom. Ludwig confirms this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "gain wisdom" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, as verified by Ludwig. It describes the act of acquiring profound understanding and sound judgment, appearing commonly in contexts such as News & Media and Academia. Related phrases include "acquire understanding" and "develop insight", each offering slightly different nuances. When using "gain wisdom", consider specifying the source or method of acquisition. Avoid confusing it with simply gaining knowledge or intelligence. Ludwig's examples highlight the phrase's suitability for various situations, emphasizing its role in personal growth and informed decision-making.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

grow wiser

Emphasizes the process of becoming more wise, rather than the act of gaining wisdom.

build wisdom

Highlights the gradual and incremental nature of acquiring wisdom.

acquire understanding

Focuses on obtaining comprehension, shifting from the more holistic concept of wisdom.

deepen understanding

Focuses on enhancing existing knowledge and comprehension.

develop insight

Emphasizes the growth of intuitive understanding, rather than accumulated knowledge.

enrich understanding

Implies adding depth and complexity to one's knowledge.

cultivate discernment

Highlights the refinement of judgment and perception over time.

foster wisdom

Suggests nurturing or encouraging the development of wisdom, rather than directly acquiring it.

gather knowledge

Stresses the accumulation of facts and information, a component of wisdom.

attain enlightenment

Suggests a more profound, spiritual level of understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "gain wisdom" in a sentence?

You can use "gain wisdom" to describe the process of acquiring understanding and good judgment through experience or learning. For example, "Travel can help you "gain wisdom" and broaden your perspective."

What's a good alternative to "gain wisdom"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "acquire understanding", "develop insight", or "cultivate discernment".

Is it better to say "gain wisdom" or "become wiser"?

Both "gain wisdom" and "grow wiser" are correct, but they emphasize different aspects. "Gain wisdom" highlights the act of acquiring it, while "grow wiser" emphasizes the process of becoming more wise over time.

What is the difference between "gain wisdom" and "gain knowledge"?

"Gain knowledge" refers to acquiring information and facts, while ""gain wisdom"" refers to developing understanding, good judgment, and the ability to apply knowledge effectively.