cautious, circumspect, wary, chary mean prudently watchful and discreet in the face of danger or risk. cautious implies the exercise of forethought usually prompted by fear of danger.

Definition of cautious adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

CAUTIOUS meaning: 1. Someone who is cautious avoids risks: 2. A cautious action is careful, well considered, and…. Learn more.

If you describe someone's attitude or reaction as cautious, you mean that it is limited or careful. He has been seen as a champion of a more cautious approach to economic reform.

1. Showing or practicing caution; careful. 2. Tentative or restrained; guarded: felt a cautious optimism that the offer would be accepted.

WordReference Random House Unabridged Dictionary of American English © 2025 cau•tious (kô′ shəs), adj. showing, using, or characterized by caution: a cautious man; To be cautious is often to …

cautious definition: careful to avoid danger or risks. Check meanings, examples, usage tips, pronunciation, domains, and related words. Discover expressions like "cautious statement", "cautious …

Sep 7, 2025 · cautious (comparative more cautious, superlative most cautious) Using or exercising caution; careful; tentative

CAUTIOUS definition: showing, using, or characterized by alertness and prudence in a hazardous or uncertain situation; careful or wary. See examples of cautious used in a sentence.

Possessing or exhibiting caution; attentive to probable effects and consequences of actions with a view to avoid danger or misfortune; prudent; circumspect; wary; watchful: as, a cautious general; a …