Word
cautious
Meanings
Careful and avoiding risk or mistakes.
Not ready to say or promise much; deliberately restrained and careful in speech or plans.
Definition
Careful to avoid danger, mistakes, or unnecessary risk.
If someone is cautious, they think carefully before acting and try to prevent problems. They often move slowly, check details, and avoid taking risks without good reasons. Being cautious can be sensible, but it can also mean hesitating when others would act more quickly.
Examples
- I’m cautious about sharing my personal details online, even with services I use regularly.
- She was cautious when replying to the reporter’s questions, choosing her words with visible care.
- They stayed cautious during the negotiation, refusing to commit until every clause was clarified.
- He remained cautious on the icy road, keeping a steady speed and a generous distance from other cars.
Common mistake
Learners often confuse "cautious" with "curious"; "cautious" means careful, not interested in learning more.
More at C1 level
- ubiquitous Present, appearing, or found everywhere at the same time.
- xenophobia Xenophobia is a strong dislike or fear of people from other countries or cultures.
- genocide Genocide is the deliberate killing of a large number of people from a particular group in order to …
- conundrum A conundrum is a confusing and difficult problem to solve.
- pretentious Trying to seem more important, intelligent, or cultured than you really are.
More adjectives
- agnostic An agnostic is someone who does not claim to know whether God exists.
- pragmatic Pragmatic means focused on practical results rather than ideals or theories.
- ubiquitous Present, appearing, or found everywhere at the same time.
- cynical Cynical describes believing that people are mainly motivated by self-interest and not sincere.
- apathetic Apathetic means showing little or no interest, concern, or enthusiasm.