What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
watchfulness
Example
The security guard maintained watchfulness throughout the night. [watchfulness: noun]
Example
She approached the dark alley with watchfulness, ready to defend herself if necessary. [watchfulness: noun]
caution
Example
He advised caution when approaching the wild animal. [caution: noun]
Example
She cautioned her friend against taking unnecessary risks. [cautioned: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Caution is more commonly used than watchfulness in everyday language. Caution is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while watchfulness is less common and often used in specific situations such as security or surveillance.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between watchfulness and caution?
Both watchfulness and caution can be used in formal and informal contexts, but watchfulness may be more associated with formal or technical language due to its specific usage in certain fields such as security or surveillance.