wise guy —(derog.) an impudent person who parades his knowledge; smb. disagreeably self-assertive:
- He got what he deserved this time. I believe he has learned his lesson and will not be such a wise guy in the future.
wise man—
1. a man of good judgment:
- A man who knows a little bit of the past and a little bit about the future is considered a wise man with superior qualifications.
2. (coll.) a shrewd and trusted guide and advisor:
- The appointment of two independent “wise men” to prepare the ground for the forthcoming talks, was suggested.
See also: wise men of Gotham / wise men of the East.