precaution Definition
an action taken in advance to prevent something dangerous, unpleasant, or inconvenient from happening.
Using precaution: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "precaution" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
As a precaution, he always wears a helmet while riding his bike.
Example
The company took precautions to protect its employees from the virus.
Example
It's better to take precautions than to regret later.
Example
She took the precaution of locking all the doors before going to bed.
precaution Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for precaution
- safeguard
- measure
- protection
- safety measure
- preventative measure
Antonyms for precaution
Phrases with precaution
take precautions
to do something in advance to avoid possible danger or problems
Example
We should take precautions to prevent the spread of the disease.
to be cautious and avoid taking risks even if it means taking more time or effort
Example
I prefer to err on the side of caution when it comes to important decisions.
precautionary tale
a story or event that serves as a warning to others
Example
The company's bankruptcy is a precautionary tale for other businesses.
Origins of precaution
from French 'précaution', from Latin 'praecautio', from 'praecavere' meaning 'to guard against'
Summary: precaution in Brief
The term 'precaution' [prɪˈkɔːʃən] refers to actions taken in advance to prevent danger, inconvenience, or unpleasantness. It is exemplified by phrases like 'take precautions,' which means to do something in advance to avoid possible danger or problems. 'Precaution' extends into idioms like 'err on the side of caution,' meaning to be cautious and avoid taking risks, and 'precautionary tale,' which is a story or event that serves as a warning to others.