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.

Still, businesses are turning more cautious as it remains unclear when the Middle East situation will be resolved and analysts warn that it will take time for markets to normalize.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 4, 2026

The group said it was continuing to closely monitor and assess market conditions and reaffirmed “the importance of adopting a cautious approach and retaining full flexibility.”

From Barron's • May 3, 2026

McDonald’s in February said its value meals were bringing back customers, even as it stayed cautious on the year ahead.

From MarketWatch • May 3, 2026

However with Skye already very busy with tourists he is cautious about suggestions the film could lead to even more visitors to the island.

From BBC • May 1, 2026

Despite her sympathy for Woodhull, Stanton remained cautious.

From "Votes for Women!" by Winifred Conkling

Vocabulary lists containing cautious

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