air of caution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "air of caution" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to convey the idea that someone is proceeding with caution or wariness due to some kind of uncertain, risky, or potentially dangerous situation. Example: The detective proceeded into the dark alleyway with an air of caution, aware of the potential danger that lurked in the shadows.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

Sign up for tHowever of VICE, delivered to your inbox danly.

Vice

The events in these last few days reflect the increased air of caution surrounding Mr. Lazio in a race that polls suggest is too close to call.

The New York Times

After the well-publicized controversies of Mr. Gonzales's tenure, an air of caution appears to have pervaded the Justice Department, current and former officials say.

The New York Times

"I feel a kinship with the Afghan hill men," a young man with wavy hair and glasses said, eying Armey's young associates with an air of caution.

The New Yorker

In many respects, that uneasiness was carefully preserved on the set, and to this day in the commentary on the disc one senses an air of caution.

The New York Times

Jack Pierce, director of sales and marketing for Emeritus Mortgage Alliance in Huntington, a lender active in the Locust Valley area, said that an "air of caution" pervaded now, but might end soon.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

It's almost inevitable given the past eighteen months that any rallies will have an air of caution about them.

The Guardian - Business

A small man with sharp but fluid movements, Eschenbach stands on the podium with an air of contained caution, like a slightly timid species of wild animal.

The Washington Post

Above all, in Baghdad there was a pervasive air of deskbound caution, buck-passing, and ass-covering, in contrast with the Wild West atmosphere that broke out, for better and for worse, in Saigon in April of 1975.

The New Yorker

Air on the side of caution, and go with a slightly lower weight than you might be able to hold.

WikiHow

Keep in mind that Germans tend to be more formal and polite than Americans, so it's better to air on the side of caution.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "air of caution" when describing a general atmosphere or demeanor characterized by carefulness and anticipation of potential problems.

Common error

Avoid using "air of caution" when the context suggests outright fear or panic. While caution involves awareness of risk, it does not necessarily imply intense dread or terror.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "air of caution" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as an object of a preposition or as a subject complement. It describes a prevailing atmosphere or attitude marked by carefulness and wariness. Ludwig AI also confirms its correctness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Science

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "air of caution" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe an atmosphere or demeanor marked by wariness and careful consideration. According to Ludwig AI, it is most appropriately used to convey potential risks or uncertainties, prompting measured action. Predominantly found in news and media, and wiki sources, it maintains a neutral to formal register. When a different nuance is intended, consider alternatives such as "note of circumspection" or "level of wariness".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

level of wariness

Focuses on distrust and suspicion as the basis for caution.

note of circumspection

Highlights careful consideration of all circumstances before acting.

feeling of guardedness

Highlights the act of protecting oneself or something else through caution.

degree of prudence

Emphasizes the wisdom and good judgment involved in being cautious.

trace of hesitation

Suggests a brief pause or reluctance before proceeding.

sense of unease

Changes the focus to the feeling of discomfort or anxiety that prompts caution.

undercurrent of anxiety

Implies a subtle, underlying worry that drives cautious behavior.

hint of reservation

Suggests a mild form of doubt or hesitation prompting caution.

spirit of vigilance

Implies a proactive and watchful approach, rather than a reactive caution.

air of skepticism

Indicates a questioning attitude and a lack of immediate trust.

FAQs

How can I use "air of caution" in a sentence?

You can use "air of caution" to describe a situation or a person's demeanor, for example: "The negotiations proceeded with an "air of caution" after the previous deal fell apart".

What's the difference between "air of caution" and "atmosphere of caution"?

While both phrases describe a careful or wary environment, "air of caution" often refers to a more subtle or intangible feeling, while "atmosphere of caution" /s/atmosphere+of+caution may suggest a more pervasive or consciously cultivated environment.

What can I say instead of "air of caution"?

You can use alternatives like "note of circumspection", "level of wariness", or "degree of prudence" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "air of cautiousness" a correct alternative to "air of caution"?

"Air of caution" is more common and idiomatic. While "air of cautiousness" is understandable, it's less frequently used and might sound slightly awkward.