caution

¹cau·tion

noun \ˈkȯ-shən\

Definition of CAUTION

1

: warning, admonishment

2

: precaution

3

: prudent forethought to minimize risk

4

: one that astonishes or commands attention <some shoes you see … these days are a caution — Esquire>

— cau·tion·ary \-shə-ˌner-ē, -ne-rē\ adjective

Examples of CAUTION

1. You should use caution when operating the electric saw.
2. He injected a note of caution in his talk.
3. Her financial adviser urged caution before investing in the project.
4. The roads are slippery: drive with extreme caution.
5. Her comments were intended as a caution to us to protect our property.
6. A note of caution: be sure that the electricity is off before you install the ceiling fan.
7. She was given a caution by the magistrate.

Origin of CAUTION

Latin caution-, cautio precaution, from cavēre to be on one's guard — more at hear

First Known Use: 1566

Related to CAUTION

Synonyms: alertness, care, carefulness, cautiousness, chariness, circumspection, gingerliness, guardedness, heedfulness, prudence, wariness

Antonyms: brashness, carelessness, heedlessness, incaution, incautiousness, recklessness, unwariness

Related Words: attentiveness, observance, vigilance, watchfulness; foresight, foresightedness, providence; calculation, canniness, deliberateness, deliberation, shrewdness

Near Antonyms: abruptness, hastiness, impetuousness, precipitousness, rashness, suddenness; inconsiderateness, inconsideration, thoughtlessness

see all synonyms and antonyms

[+]more[-]hide