caution
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈkɔːʃən/
KK: /ˈkɔːʃən/
noun
Definition
The act of being careful to avoid danger or mistakes; a warning to be careful.
Example
He approached the edge of the cliff with great caution.
Conversation
I think we should approach the trail with a bit of caution this time.
That's a good idea, especially with the rain from yesterday.
Yeah, last time we didn't take enough caution and it got slippery.
Exactly! Better to be safe than sorry out there.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
care
prudence
forethought
Antonyms
recklessness
carelessness
imprudence
transitive verb
Definition
To advise someone to be careful or to pay attention to potential dangers or problems.
Example
She cautioned him to drive slowly in the rain.
Tense Forms
Past: cautioned
Past Participle: cautioned
Conversation
I think you should caution him about the risks of that project.
You're right; he might not realize how complicated it could get.
Exactly! It's better to be safe than sorry.
Root Explanation
Caution → It is derived from the Latin word "cautio" (meaning care or precaution), which comes from "cautus" (meaning cautious or careful). The word "caution" refers to the act of being careful or taking care to avoid danger or mistakes.
Memory Tip
Think of being 'careful' ('cautio') to avoid problems — that's what caution means.
Visually Confused Words
cation
incaution
causation
caudation
cathion
caption
cantion
auction