Reading Theme:
Caution: Definition, Usage & Common Mistakes (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：carefulness (caution)
caution
/ˈkɔːʃn/
n.
Being careful to avoid problems or danger.
carefulness
➕
/ˈkɛrfəlnəs/
n.
The quality of thinking about and avoiding potential problems or dangers before acting.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Latin *cautio* (carefulness), from *cavēre* (to beware).
💡 Mnemonic
Think of yellow 'CAUTION' tape. The word itself is a warning to be careful.
📖 Example
When learning to drive, my instructor always stressed the importance of caution at busy intersections.
During my driving lessons, my teacher constantly emphasized the need for carefulness at crowded crossroads.
🔗 Collocations
exercise caution – to deliberately act with carefulness
urge caution – to strongly advise carefulness
with caution – in a careful and considered manner
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
recklessness (n.) – Lack of regard for danger or consequences.
rashness (n.) – Hasty, unthinking action without consideration of effects.
carelessness (n.) – Failure to give sufficient attention to avoiding harm.
🌱 Derivatives
cautious (adj.) – Showing or using carefulness to avoid problems.
📖 Cultural Story
The word 'caution' entered English via French from Latin *cautio*. Its formal warning sense is deeply embedded in modern legal and institutional language, frequently appearing on official signs and in police procedures to denote a formal reprimand.
Meaning 2：warning (caution)
caution
/ˈkɔːʃn/
n.
A formal warning given to someone about possible danger or about breaking a rule.
warning
➕
/ˈwɔːrnɪŋ/
n.
An official statement or piece of advice given to alert someone to a potential danger or to reprimand them for a minor offense.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
The police officer let the driver off with a caution because it was his first minor traffic offense.
The police officer gave the driver a formal warning instead of a fine, as it was his initial minor traffic violation.
🔗 Collocations
issue a caution – to give an official warning
receive a caution – to be given an official warning
verbal caution – a warning given orally, not in writing
🔄 Synonyms
warning (n.) – A statement or event indicating possible danger or an undesirable outcome.
admonition (n.) – A firm warning or reprimand, often with an advice to correct behavior.
reprimand (n.) – A formal expression of disapproval.
🚫 Antonyms
encouragement (n.) – The action of giving support, confidence, or hope.
endorsement (n.) – An act of giving one's public approval or support.
approval (n.) – The action of officially agreeing to something or accepting something as satisfactory.
🌱 Derivatives
cautionary (adj.) – Acting as a warning.
Wordbook
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