Definitions

circumspect

[sur-kuhm-spekt] / ˈsɜr kəmˌspɛkt /

ADJECTIVE

cautious, discreet

Synonyms

STRONGEST

cagey careful considerate discriminating judicious meticulous prudent scrupulous vigilant wary

WEAK

attentive calculating canny chary deliberate gingerly guarded heedful observant politic punctilious safe sagacious sage watchful

Antonyms

STRONGEST

careless foolish inattentive incautious indiscreet negligent reckless thoughtless unscrupulous unwise

WEAK

audacious bold rash uncareful uncircumspect unheedful

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.

However, recent data pointing to a sharp slowdown in economic growth has prompted some to grow more circumspect.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 16, 2026

But China's own statements have been circumspect, saying it backs the ceasefire but hardly trumpeting its own diplomacy.

From Barron's • Apr. 10, 2026

"We are still being very circumspect," the Pakistan source told the BBC, saying that there was a "continued fragility" to the situation.

From BBC • Apr. 8, 2026

“Earnings revisions are set to keep the investor debate on a circumspect footing.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 9, 2026

Officials of state-supported black colleges had to be more circumspect since they depended upon the funding provided by the all-white state legislature.

From "The Best of Enemies" by Osha Gray Davidson

Vocabulary lists containing circumspect

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Grade 11, List 2

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