What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
alert
Example
The security guard was alert and ready to respond to any suspicious activity. [alert: adjective]
Example
I set an alert on my phone to remind me of the meeting. [alert: noun]
Example
She remained alert throughout the hike, watching for any signs of danger. [alert: adverb]
cautious
Example
He was cautious when crossing the busy street, looking both ways before stepping off the curb. [cautious: adjective]
Example
She approached the situation with caution, considering all possible outcomes. [caution: noun]
Example
They proceeded cautiously through the dark alley, aware of the potential danger. [cautiously: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cautious is more commonly used than alert in everyday language. Cautious is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while alert is less common and often used in emergency or urgent situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between alert and cautious?
Both alert and cautious can be used in formal and informal contexts, but alert may be more commonly used in professional or technical settings where quick and immediate responses are required.
