caution

[ˈkɔːʃən]

caution Definition

• 1. care taken to avoid danger or mistakes
• 2. a warning against danger or evil
• 3. a formal warning given by the police to someone who has committed a minor offense

Using caution: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "caution" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The climbers ascended the mountain with caution.

• Example

  I advise you to exercise caution when dealing with strangers.

• Example

  The police officer gave him a caution for speeding.

caution Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for caution

• carefulness
• prudence
• vigilance
• admonition
• warning

Antonyms for caution

• recklessness
• carelessness

Phrases with caution

• err on the side of caution

  to take a cautious approach, even if it may seem excessive or unnecessary

  Example

  I always err on the side of caution when it comes to my health.

• throw caution to the wind

  to act recklessly and without regard for the consequences

  Example

  She decided to throw caution to the wind and quit her job to travel the world.

• with caution

  in a careful and guarded manner

  Example

  He approached the wild animal with caution.

Origins of caution

from Latin 'cautio', meaning 'precaution'

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Summary: caution in Brief

The term 'caution' [ˈkɔːʃən] refers to care taken to avoid danger or mistakes, exemplified by 'The climbers ascended the mountain with caution.' It also denotes a warning against danger or evil, as in 'I advise you to exercise caution when dealing with strangers.' 'Caution' extends into phrases like 'err on the side of caution,' suggesting a cautious approach, and 'throw caution to the wind,' implying recklessness.