Definition

Noun 1. Common sense, practical intelligence, or good judgment: The ability to think and act in a sensible, reasonable, and practical way, especially in everyday situations. 2. (Philosophy) Mind, intellect, or reason: In philosophical contexts, the faculty of the mind responsible for thought, understanding, and intellect.

Usage and Examples

• Common sense, practical intelligence:
  • She has great social nous and always knows the right thing to say.
  • You need a bit of nous to navigate the complexities of the modern workplace.
• (Philosophy) Mind or intellect:
  • The philosopher discussed the nature of the human nous.
  • For Aristotle, the nous was the highest part of the soul, capable of understanding abstract principles.

Advanced Usage and Notes

• The philosophical meaning (mind, intellect) is formal and primarily used in academic or intellectual discussions.
• The more common, everyday meaning (common sense, savvy) is often used in British English and is considered informal. It implies a natural, almost intuitive, practical wisdom.
• It is typically used as an uncountable noun (e.g., "He has plenty of nous," not "He has many nouses").

Variants and Related Words

• Noetic (adj): Relating to the intellect or mind.
  • The study focused on the noetic aspects of consciousness.

Synonyms

• Common sense: Good sense and sound judgment in practical matters.
• Savvy: Shrewdness and practical knowledge, especially in a particular field.
• Gumption (informal): Initiative and resourcefulness.
• Acumen: The ability to make good judgments and quick decisions.
• Intellect (for the philosophical sense): The faculty of reasoning and understanding objectively.

Antonyms

• Foolishness: Lack of good sense or judgment.
• Ineptitude: Lack of skill or ability.
• Stupidity: The quality of being stupid or unintelligent.

Idioms and Phrases

• A lack of nous: Used to describe someone who is not sensible or practical.
  • His plan failed due to a complete lack of nous.
• Business nous: Practical understanding and skill in commercial matters.
  • Her business nous turned the small startup into a success.

Noun

1. that which is responsible for one's thoughts and feelings; the seat of the faculty of reason
   • his mind wandered
   • I couldn't get his words out of my head
2. common sense
   • she has great social nous