cautious

/ˈkɔʃəs/
Add to My Dictionary
In My Dictionary
+1
Careful to avoid danger, mistakes, or unwanted results.

Examples

  • A cautious driver slowed down before the icy bridge.
  • We are cautious, but we are not refusing the idea.
  • He took one cautious step onto the old floor.
  • She was cautious about sharing personal details online.
  • The doctor gave a cautious answer until the test results arrived.

Similar words

wary
careful
watchful
prudent
guarded
circumspect

Meanings

Careful about possible risks

adjective
everyday
neutral
Thinking carefully before acting because something may be dangerous, uncertain, or likely to cause a problem.

Examples

  • She was cautious about sharing personal details online.
  • A cautious driver slowed down before the icy bridge.
  • The doctor gave a cautious answer until the test results arrived.
  • Why are investors being so cautious this week?
  • He took one cautious step onto the old floor.
  • We are cautious, but we are not refusing the idea.

Similar words

Etymology

From Latin cautus, meaning careful or on guard, through French cautieux. It is related to caution.

FAQ

What does cautious mean?

Cautious means careful about possible danger, mistakes, or bad results.

How is cautious pronounced?

In General American English, cautious is pronounced /ˈkɔʃəs/.

When is cautious used?

Thinking carefully before acting because something may be dangerous, uncertain, or likely to cause a problem.

Can cautious describe a statement?

Yes. A cautious statement avoids claiming more than the evidence supports.

What is the opposite of cautious?

Common opposites include careless, reckless, and rash.

Where does cautious come from?

It comes ultimately from Latin cautus, meaning careful or on guard.

Comments & contributions

Know this word from another angle? Add a correction, a nuance, or a usage note. New posts go public after a quick review.
Posting as a guest · Sign in
No comments yet. Be the first to add one.
Look up word or phrase...