Meaning of cautious in English

1. Pronunciation

   /ˈkɔʃəs/

   US accent

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   UK accent

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1. Classifying Adjective

   cautious

   Definitions

   1. avoiding excess

   Examples

   • « a conservative estimate »

   Synonyms

   • moderate
2. 2. cautious in attitude and careful in actions

   Examples

   • « prudent »
   • « a cautious answer »
   • « very cautious about believing everything she was told »

   Synonyms

   • careful
3. 3. unwilling to take risks

   Synonyms

   • unadventurous

4. Noun

   cautious

   Definitions

   1. people who are fearful and cautious

   Examples

   • « whitewater rafting is not for the timid »

   Antonyms

   • brave

5. Qualitative Adjective

   cautious

   Etymology

   mid 17th century: from caution, on the pattern of pairs such as ambition, ambitious

   Definitions

   1. showing careful forethought

   Examples

   • « reserved and cautious »
   • « never making swift decisions »
   • « a cautious driver »

   Synonyms

   • cagey
   • cagy
   • chary
   • fabian
   • dilatory
   • gingerly
   • guarded
   • restrained
   • overcautious

   Antonyms

   • incautious

See also

• careful
• unadventurous