cautious
word
/ˈkɔʃəs/
KAW-shuhs
/kˈɔːʃəs/
KAW-shuhs
Definition
Someone who is cautious is careful to avoid danger, problems, or mistakes. They think before acting and do not take unnecessary risks.
Usage & Nuances
'Cautious' is slightly more formal than 'careful' and often emphasizes a mindset of avoiding risk. Common collocations: 'cautious approach', 'be cautious about', 'cautious optimism'. Avoid using 'cautious' for physical gentleness; use 'gentle' or 'delicate' instead.
Spanish: cauteloso - precavidoPortuguese (BR): cauteloso - cuidadosoPortuguese (PT): cauteloso - cuidadosoChinese (Simplified): 小心的 - 谨慎的Chinese (Traditional): 小心的 - 謹慎的Hindi: सावधान - सतर्कArabic: حذر - متأنٍBengali: সতর্ক - সাবধানRussian: осторожныйJapanese: 用心深い - 慎重なVietnamese: thận trọngKorean: 조심스러운 - 신중한Turkish: ihtiyatlı - temkinliUrdu: محتاطIndonesian: berhati-hati
Example Sentences
Please be cautious when crossing the street.
basic
He is always cautious with his money.
basic
The teacher gave a cautious answer to the question.
basic
She's cautious about trusting new people too quickly.
natural
Investors are cautious after last year's losses.
natural
I'm cautious by nature, so I plan everything ahead.
natural