a cautious time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a cautious time" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing a period of time that requires extra care or caution to navigate. For example: "The past year has been a cautious time for all of us, but now it's time for us to move forward."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Even in Reich's tiny studio-apartment space their distinctive aesthetic comes across, and however it's defined it is part of a bigger collective something out there that is more than welcome in a cautious time for American art (Cotter).

The New York Times - Arts

"It is still a cautious time for people to be buying housing.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

"Right now we're seeing a more cautious time of spending supported by growing incomes," he said, adding that consumers had been saving more while also trying to pay off their debts.

The New York Times

This carve-up of posts was considered a way of bringing all parties on board, under a cautious leadership.This time, however, the elections are supposed to be open.

The Economist

"This is not the time to be timid or cautious, time to stand up and do something.

HuffPost

Here he strikes a cautious, at times even equivocal, note.

The Guardian - Books

The buildings' translucent plastic surfaces are not only about light; they suggest a cautious, at times shadowy, interior world.

The New York Times - Arts

(Pre-emptive memo to the thought police: yes, "holiday display" is probably the preferred usage in these cautious times. But why kid ourselves? There was nary a reference to Hanukkah or Kwanzaa).

The New York Times

Uruguay's only option in Bolivia is to arrive in La Paz as close as possible to kick off time, play a cautious game, waste some time (the visiting goalkeeper usually picks up a yellow card in these matches) and hope one of their strikers can nick a goal on the counter-attack.

BBC

But in these fiscally cautious times, where every line item of every budget in every company is under intense scrutiny, many organizations are doing just the opposite.

Harvard Business Review

Or take Nadir Ravankhot in "A Different Bhel". He couldn't have got away with the kinds of things he did had he not lived in politically less cautious times.

HuffPost

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a cautious time", ensure the context clearly indicates what specific dangers or uncertainties warrant the caution. Provide concrete examples to support your claim.

Common error

Avoid using "a cautious time" in situations where the level of risk is minimal or the stakes are low. Overusing the phrase can dilute its impact and make your writing sound melodramatic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a cautious time" functions as a noun phrase, with "cautious" acting as an adjective modifying the noun "time". Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Arts

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a cautious time" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe periods requiring careful consideration due to potential risks or uncertainties. While not very common, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, its usage is generally appropriate in news and media, as well as in art-related discussions. When employing this phrase, ensure the context justifies the need for caution and avoid overuse to maintain its impact. Consider related phrases like ""a period of vigilance"" or ""a delicate juncture"" to add variety to your writing. Remember that clarity and appropriate context are key to effectively conveying the intended message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a period of vigilance

Focuses on the need for heightened awareness and attentiveness during a specific duration.

an era of prudence

Highlights the importance of wise and careful decision-making throughout an extended duration.

a moment for circumspection

Emphasizes the need for careful consideration and reflection before acting.

a season of restraint

Suggests a period where moderation and controlled actions are necessary.

a delicate juncture

Implies a critical point in time where sensitivity and care are essential.

a precarious moment

Emphasizes the instability and potential danger requiring careful navigation.

a sensitive period

Highlights a time requiring careful handling due to potential volatility or vulnerability.

a phase demanding foresight

Stresses the importance of anticipating future consequences and planning accordingly.

an age of austerity

Refers to a period marked by economic hardship and the need for careful financial management.

a critical phase

Indicates a crucial stage requiring careful attention and precise execution.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "a cautious time" in a sentence?

To use "a cautious time" effectively, ensure the sentence clearly specifies the reason for caution. For example: "This is "a cautious time" for investment due to market volatility".

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "a cautious time"?

Depending on the nuance you want to convey, consider using alternatives such as "a period of vigilance", "a delicate juncture", or "a precarious moment".

Is it grammatically correct to use "a cautious time", or should it be phrased differently?

The phrase "a cautious time" is grammatically correct. It follows standard English syntax and is understandable in context.

What distinguishes "a cautious time" from "a time for caution"?

While both phrases convey a similar meaning, "a cautious time" suggests that the entire period necessitates caution, whereas "a time for caution" implies that specific actions or decisions within that period require careful consideration.