cautious

/ˈkɔʃəs/
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Careful to avoid danger, mistakes, or unwanted results.

Examples

  • He took one cautious step onto the old floor.
  • A cautious driver slowed down before the icy bridge.
  • She was cautious about sharing personal details online.
  • Why are investors being so cautious this week?
  • The doctor gave a cautious answer until the test results arrived.

Similar words

careful
circumspect
wary
prudent
guarded
watchful

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.

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