What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cautious
Example
She is always cautious when crossing the road. [cautious: adjective]
Example
He cautiously approached the wild animal, not wanting to startle it. [cautiously: adverb]
vigilant
Example
The security guard remained vigilant throughout the night, ensuring the safety of the building. [vigilant: adjective]
Example
It is important to be vigilant when walking alone at night. [vigilant: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cautious is more commonly used than vigilant in everyday language. Cautious is a versatile word that can be applied to different situations and contexts, while vigilant is more specific and often used in specific domains such as security or safety.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cautious and vigilant?
Both cautious and vigilant can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, vigilant may be slightly more formal due to its association with security and safety.
