What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
guarded
Example
The politician gave a guarded response to the reporter's question. [guarded: adjective]
Example
She was guarded around strangers, not wanting to reveal too much about herself. [guarded: verb]
circumspect
Example
He was circumspect in his approach to the problem, considering all possible solutions. [circumspect: adjective]
Example
She spoke circumspectly, choosing her words carefully to avoid offending anyone. [circumspectly: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Guarded is more common in everyday language than circumspect, which is more formal and less frequently used.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between guarded and circumspect?
Circumspect is more formal than guarded, and is often used in professional or academic contexts where precision and thoughtfulness are valued.
