Definitions

cautious

[kaw-shuhs] / ˈkɔ ʃəs /

ADJECTIVE

careful, guarded

Synonyms

STRONGEST

circumspect discreet judicious leery prudent tentative vigilant wary watchful

STRONG

alert safe

WEAK

all ears cagey calculating chary considerate forethoughtful gingerly hedging one's bets heedful keeping on one's toes on the lookout playing it cool playing safe politic provident pussyfoot shrewd taking it easy taking it slow thinking twice walking on eggs watching one's step watching out with one's eyes peeled

Antonyms

STRONGEST

careless certain foolish inattentive incautious indiscreet negligent rash reckless sure thoughtless uncareful unwise

WEAK

hasty heedless imprudent unguarded unobservant

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Other experts are more cautious, saying it is unclear if boosting flavanol levels would prevent heart problems.

From BBC • Jun. 8, 2026

We therefore need to be cautious about interpreting every fossil groove as deliberate toothpicking.

From Science Daily • Jun. 8, 2026

Institutional rules and norms, on the other hand, give bishops incentives to be methodical and cautious.

From Slate • Jun. 8, 2026

Roberto Sanchez, locked in a neck-and-neck contest with conservative rival Keiko Fujimori, struck a deliberately cautious tone when asked about the often bruising US leader.

From Barron's • Jun. 5, 2026

She was still feeling cautious, and more than a little wary of strangers, but...Mama had taught her the rule of kin.

From "Beasts of Prey" by Ayana Gray

Vocabulary lists containing cautious

Legend

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"Scary Tales," Vocabulary from the essay

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