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.

Sentiment was cautious heading into the print following Singh’s comments last month.

From Barron's • Jun. 10, 2026

—European indexes edged higher at market open in cautious early trade, as most sectors rose though software stocks continued their volatile run.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 10, 2026

As for Awosika, she said the experience had left her far more cautious.

From BBC • Jun. 9, 2026

“The market is not going to have a problem with a very slow, cautious approach to rate hikes to make sure there is price stability,” Tipp said.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 8, 2026

Despite her sympathy for Woodhull, Stanton remained cautious.

From "Votes for Women!" by Winifred Conkling

Vocabulary lists containing cautious

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