a precaution against

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a precaution against" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing measures taken to prevent potential problems or dangers. Example: "Wearing a helmet while riding a bike is a precaution against head injuries."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The chemotherapy is a precaution against its possible return.

Independent

Many such economies run surpluses as a precaution against financial turmoil.

The Economist

We remove our shoes, a common practice in Hawaii, but here a precaution against spreading disease.

The New York Times

My doctor advised I should continue taking warfarin, as a precaution against clotting.

The New York Times

At the nearby hospital, staff draped the windows with blinds as a precaution against sniper rounds.

Independent

Nonetheless, the town has been evacuated as a precaution against further landslides.

The Economist

Policemen and armed soldiers were on duty as a precaution against protesters.

The New York Times

Germany ordered farmers to keep poultry inside yesterday as a precaution against the bird flu.

The Guardian

The government is purchasing and storing medicines and vaccines as a precaution against future attacks.

The Guardian

To decant vodka into an Evian bottle as a precaution against flight attendants ignoring us.

The Guardian - Opinion

Moments later Modric, the game's creative heartbeat, was withdrawn as a precaution against a groin problem.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a precaution against", clearly state what you are trying to prevent to give context to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "a precaution against" for minor inconveniences. Reserve it for situations where there's a genuine risk or potential harm.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a precaution against" functions as a prepositional phrase indicating a measure taken to prevent something undesirable from happening. Ludwig examples show it used in diverse scenarios, aligning with the description provided by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a precaution against" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe measures taken to prevent potential harm or negative outcomes. Ludwig's analysis, supported by numerous examples, indicates that it is used in various contexts, particularly in news, science, and encyclopedic content. While versatile, it is best reserved for situations where genuine risk or potential harm is involved. Remember to clearly state what the precaution is against to give full context. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and correctness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a preventive measure for

Focuses on the action taken to hinder something from happening, emphasizing prevention.

a protective step against

Highlights the safeguarding aspect of the action.

a safety measure to avoid

Emphasizes safety and avoidance of a specific risk.

an insurance policy against

Implies a form of guarantee or safeguard against a possible event.

a buffer against

Suggests a way to mitigate the impact of something.

a defensive strategy against

Highlights a strategic approach to protect against something.

a shield from

Emphasizes protection and defense, but less formal.

a guard against

Focuses on vigilance and defense.

a deterrent to

Highlights discouraging or preventing something.

an antidote for

Suggests counteracting or neutralizing something harmful.

FAQs

How can I use "a precaution against" in a sentence?

Use "a precaution against" to describe actions taken to prevent something negative. For example, "Regular hand washing is "a precaution against" spreading germs."

What are some alternatives to "a precaution against"?

You can use phrases like "a preventive measure for", "a protective step against", or "a safety measure to avoid" as alternatives to "a precaution against".

Is it better to say "precaution against" or "precaution for"?

"Precaution against" is generally used to prevent something negative. "Precaution for" isn't as common; consider rephrasing to specify what action is being taken as a precaution.

What's the difference between "a precaution against" and "a preventative for"?

While both aim to prevent something, ""a precaution against"" implies a measure taken out of caution, while "a preventative for" refers directly to something that prevents. They're often interchangeable but "precaution against" can imply a broader scope of action.