Wise vs. Vise: What's the Difference?
Edited by Harlon Moss || By Janet White || Published on October 6, 2023
"Wise" refers to having experience, knowledge, and good judgment; "vise" is a tool with movable jaws used for holding objects firmly. They differ in meaning, pronunciation, and usage, one being an adjective and the other a noun.
Key Differences
"Wise" is an adjective that describes someone who has experience, knowledge, and good judgment. It is used to characterize people who can make sensible decisions and provide valuable insights or advice. In contrast, "vise" is a noun denoting a mechanical device, typically made of metal, consisting of two jaws brought together by a screw to hold an object firmly. The fundamental distinction between "wise" and "vise" lies in their meanings and grammatical roles in a sentence, one representing a quality or state of being, the other being a tangible object used as a tool.
"Wise" is often used in various contexts to describe decisions, actions, or words that are characterized by wisdom or discernment. It implies a deep understanding and prudent application of knowledge. On the contrary, "vise" has a more limited and specific application, referring to a tool used mainly in woodworking or metalworking to hold objects in place securely. Its use is predominantly literal and practical, referencing the tangible tool used in workshops and garages.
When using the word "wise," it usually modifies a noun, providing more information about the qualities or characteristics of that noun. It might describe individuals, decisions, words, or actions that reflect sound judgment or discernment. In contrast, "vise" as a noun, is the subject or object of a verb, denoting a specific item with a clear and practical purpose, primarily associated with manual work and craftsmanship.
Furthermore, "wise" has different variations and can be used in numerous idioms and phrases to convey wisdom or prudent judgment. It has broader applications in literary and everyday language, reflecting intellectual and moral qualities. In contrast, "vise," with its clear and singular meaning, does not have such variations or idiomatic uses, remaining largely within the realm of technical and practical language.
Comparison Chart
Part of Speech
Adjective
Noun
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Meaning
Having or showing experience, knowledge, and good judgment
A tool with movable jaws used for holding objects firmly
Usage
Describes people, actions, decisions, words, etc.
Refers to a specific tool used in woodworking or metalworking
Variations
Has various forms like wisely, wiser, and wisest
Typically has a singular form
Idiomatic Uses
Used in various idioms and phrases
Does not have idiomatic uses
Wise and Vise Definitions
Wise
Having or showing experience, knowledge, and good judgment.
It is wise to save money for the future.
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Vise
A tool used to hold an object firmly.
He secured the wood in the vise before sawing.
Wise
Having the ability to discern or judge.
He made a wise choice.
Vise
An apparatus with adjustable jaws.
I need a vise to keep this wood steady while I work on it.
Wise
Having the ability to discern or judge what is true, right, or lasting; sagacious
A wise leader.
Vise
A tool for holding work in place.
The plumber used a vise to hold the pipe.
Wise
Exhibiting common sense; prudent
A wise decision.
Vise
A clamping device usually consisting of two jaws.
The vise held the metal piece firmly.
Wise
Shrewd; crafty
Made a wise move selling the house when he did.
Vise
A mechanical device for securing objects.
The craftsman tightened the vise around the block of wood.
Wise
Provided with information; informed. Often used with to
I'm wise to your tricks. We were none the wiser after reading the report.
Vise
A heavy clamp, usually mounted on a workbench and operated by a screw or lever, used in carpentry or metalworking to hold a piece in position.
Wise
(Slang) Rude and disrespectful; impudent.
Vise
To hold or compress in or as if in a vise.
Wise
Method or manner of doing; way
In no wise.
In any wise.
Vise
(US) An instrument consisting of two jaws, closing by a screw, lever, cam, or the like, for holding work, as in filing.
Wise
Showing good judgement or the benefit of experience.
Storing extra food for the winter was a wise decision.
They were considered the wise old men of the administration.
"It is a profitable thing, if one is wise, to seem foolish" - Aeschylus
Vise
To clamp with or as with a vise.
Wise
Disrespectful.
Don't get wise with me!
Vise
An instrument consisting of two jaws, closing by a screw, lever, cam, or the like, for holding work, as in filing.
Wise
(colloquial) Aware, informed.
Be careful: the boss is wise to your plan to call out sick.
Vise
An indorsement made on a passport by the proper authorities of certain countries on the continent of Europe, denoting that it has been examined, and that the person who bears it is permitted to proceed on his journey; a visa.
Wise
To become wise.
Vise
To examine and indorse, as a passport; to visa.
Wise
Usually with "up", to inform or learn.
Mo wised him up about his situation.
After Mo had a word with him, he wised up.
Vise
A holding device attached to a workbench; has two jaws to hold workpiece firmly in place
Wise
(dialectal) To instruct.
Wise
(dialectal) To advise; induce.
Wise
(dialectal) To show the way, guide.
Wise
(dialectal) To direct the course of, pilot.
Wise
(dialectal) To cause to turn.
Wise
(archaic) Way, manner, or method.
Wise
Having knowledge; knowing; enlightened; of extensive information; erudite; learned.
They are wise to do evil, but to do good they have no knowledge.
Wise
Hence, especially, making due use of knowledge; discerning and judging soundly concerning what is true or false, proper or improper; choosing the best ends and the best means for accomplishing them; sagacious.
When clouds appear, wise men put their cloaks.
From a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation.
Wise
Versed in art or science; skillful; dexterous; specifically, skilled in divination.
Fal. There was, mine host, an old fat woman even now with me; but she's gone.Sim. Pray you, sir, was't not the wise woman of Brentford?
Wise
Hence, prudent; calculating; shrewd; wary; subtle; crafty.
Nor, on the other side,Will I be penuriously wiseAs to make money, that's my slave, my idol.
Lords do not care for me:I am too wise to die yet.
Wise
Dictated or guided by wisdom; containing or exhibiting wisdom; well adapted to produce good effects; judicious; discreet; as, a wise saying; a wise scheme or plan; wise conduct or management; a wise determination.
A very grave, state bachelor, my dainty one;He's wise in years, and of a temperate warmth.
You are too wise in years, too full of counsel,For my green experience.
Wise
Way of being or acting; manner; mode; fashion.
To love her in my beste wyse.
This song she sings in most commanding wise.
Let not these blessings then, sent from above,Abused be, or spilt in profane wise.
Wise
A way of doing or being;
In no wise
In this wise
Wise
United States Jewish leader (born in Hungary) (1874-1949)
Wise
United States religious leader (born in Bohemia) who united reform Jewish organizations in the United States (1819-1900)
Wise
Having or prompted by wisdom or discernment;
A wise leader
A wise and perceptive comment
Wise
Marked by the exercise of good judgment or common sense in practical matters;
Judicious use of one's money
A sensible manager
A wise decision
Wise
Evidencing the possession of inside information
Wise
Able to take a broad view of negotiations between states
Wise
Carefully considered;
A considered opinion
Wise
Informed on a particular subject.
He is wise in the ways of the world.
Wise
Characterized by wisdom; prudent.
She gave me a wise counsel.
Wise
Shrewd or astute.
It was a wise investment.
FAQs
Can "wise" be used to describe decisions?
Yes, "wise" can be used to describe decisions that are made with good judgment and understanding.
Does "wise" have variations?
Yes, "wise" has variations such as wisely (adverb), wiser, and wisest (comparative and superlative forms).
Does "wise" only refer to intellectual knowledge?
No, "wise" can refer to both intellectual knowledge and practical, experiential understanding or discernment.
Is "wise" an adjective?
Yes, "wise" is an adjective used to describe someone or something that shows good judgment and knowledge.
Can "vise" have different forms?
"Vise" typically has a singular form, referring to the specific tool.
Is "vise" used metaphorically?
Typically, "vise" is not used metaphorically and has a literal meaning referring to the tool.
Is "vise" used in informal language?
"Vise" is a technical term, typically used in the context of craftsmanship or manual work, rather than in informal conversation.
What is the main function of a "vise"?
The main function of a "vise" is to securely hold objects in place, allowing work to be performed on them.
Can "wise" refer to moral judgment?
Yes, "wise" can refer to moral judgment and understanding, not just intellectual knowledge.
What is a "vise" primarily used for?
A "vise" is primarily used for holding objects firmly in place, especially in woodworking or metalworking.
Can "wise" be used in idioms?
Yes, "wise" is used in various idioms and phrases, such as "penny wise, pound foolish."
Is "vise" a common household item?
"Vise" is more commonly found in workshops or garages rather than being a common household item.
Does "wise" have a noun form?
Yes, the noun form of "wise" is "wisdom," referring to the quality of having experience, knowledge, and good judgment.
Is "wise" used in formal writing?
Yes, "wise" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, depending on the usage.
Can "vise" be spelled differently?
Yes, "vise" can also be spelled "vice" in British English, but it has the same meaning.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
