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Showing results for cautious. Search instead for cautiousn.
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.

But consumers have remained cautious, and retailers over this decade have already been dealing with tariffs and spikes in energy and shipping costs.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 6, 2026

Kempczinski also discussed menu strategy, what his company reveals about today’s cautious consumer—and why he’s willing to eat on camera again.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 6, 2026

RAC spokesperson Rod Dennis said: "We recommend taking extra care on exposed, higher routes and being especially cautious when overtaking high‑sided vehicles, as the buffeting effect can catch some people out."

From BBC • Apr. 4, 2026

The price of Bitcoin, XRP, and other cryptocurrencies jumped Wednesday but the rebound was less enthusiastic than that of other risk assets as investors remained cautious over digital assets’ role in the Iran war.

From Barron's • Apr. 1, 2026

The first guard took a cautious step forward.

From "A Wish in the Dark" by Christina Soontornvat