Cautious: Definition, Usage & Common Mistakes

Meaning 1：being careful (cautious)

cautious 🔊

/ˈkɔːʃəs/

adj.

Being careful not to take risks or make mistakes.

Cautious person walking carefully on icy sidewalk, demonstrating careful attention to avoid risk.

being careful 🔊

➕

/ˈbiːɪŋ ˈkeəfəl/

adj.

Demonstrating care and attention to avoid potential risks or mistakes.

📁 Category：Behaviors & Actions 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Latin 'cautus' (careful), derived from 'cavere' (to beware).

💡 Mnemonic

Think of a 'caution' sign; being cautious is like obeying it to avoid danger.

📖 Example

Before investing her savings, Jane was very cautious and did a lot of research. 🔊 Before investing her savings, Jane was very cautious and did a lot of research.

🔗 Collocations

cautious approach – a careful method of handling something

cautious optimism – a hopeful but careful attitude

cautious driver – a driver who is careful on the road

🔄 Synonyms

careful (adj.) – taking care to avoid mistakes or harm

prudent (adj.) – showing good judgment in practical matters

wary (adj.) – feeling or showing caution about possible dangers

🚫 Antonyms

reckless (adj.) – acting without thinking about the consequences

careless (adj.) – not giving enough attention to avoiding harm

impulsive (adj.) – acting suddenly without careful thought

🌱 Derivatives

caution (n.) – care taken to avoid danger or mistakes

cautiously (adv.) – in a careful manner

cautiousness (n.) – the quality of being cautious

📖 Cultural Story

The word 'cautious' originates from Latin 'cautus', meaning 'careful'. In modern English, it is commonly used in finance, safety, and decision-making contexts to emphasize risk avoidance.