cautious

adjective

cau·tious ˈkȯ-shəs

Synonyms of cautious next

: careful about avoiding danger or risk

cautious investors

cautious optimism

cautiously adverb

cautiousness noun

Choose the Right Synonym for cautious

cautious, circumspect, wary, chary mean prudently watchful and discreet in the face of danger or risk.

cautious implies the exercise of forethought usually prompted by fear of danger.

a cautious driver

circumspect suggests less fear and stresses the surveying of all possible consequences before acting or deciding.

circumspect in his business dealings

wary emphasizes suspiciousness and alertness in watching for danger and cunning in escaping it.

keeps a wary eye on the competition

chary implies a cautious reluctance to give, act, or speak freely.

chary of signing papers without having read them first

Examples of cautious in a Sentence

Any cautious tourist will guard her passport. You cannot be overly cautious when you're driving in snow. He answered the question with a cautious reply.

Recent Examples on the Web

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Of course, outdoor activities in cold climates require precautions, including dressing appropriately, staying hydrated, being cautious on icy trails, and pacing oneself. —

Irene S. Levine, Forbes, 23 Dec. 2024 Travelers should be cautious, especially along major highways like Interstate 90 and 35, as conditions could remain hazardous. —

Hannah Parry, Newsweek, 23 Dec. 2024 People who are pregnant or lactating should be cautious with annatto supplementation, as research is lacking regarding its safety in these populations.14 When buying a supplement, make sure the product is independently tested. —

Devineé Lingo, M.s., Health, 21 Dec. 2024 With rates nearing neutral levels, Powell emphasized the importance of a cautious approach, erasing any lingering hopes for aggressive easing. —

Benzinga, Detroit Free Press, 21 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for cautious