be conservative about

USAGE SUMMARY

"be conservative about" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It means to be cautious or careful in one's actions or decisions. It can be used in any situation where someone is advised to be careful or reserved in their approach. Example: When investing in the stock market, it is important to be conservative about your choices. Don't take unnecessary risks that could lead to financial losses.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

Let's be conservative about this.

University of California, Berkeley

Hence, we must be conservative about the economic outlook".

The New York Times

Go buy some truly flamboyant, golf-centric outfits, and don't be conservative about your choices.

The New York Times - Sports

Be conservative about change: Great companies very seldom make radical changes--and take great care in their planning and implementation.

Harvard Business Review

Be conservative about the concepts of statistical significance and margin of error, especially when analyzing phenomena on the threshold between signal and noise.

Columbia University

Mr. Daniels said that memorial officials would be conservative about the number of passes granted until they had a better idea of how long people would spend there.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

But Norwegians are conservative about drugs.

The New York Times

But the new owners were conservative about lending in Mexico.

The New York Times

But if Rock is conservative about family matters, he's been equally bullish about race-relations.

Independent

What is conservative about allowing government to grow faster than under Mr Clinton?

The Economist

Ophthalmologists say they find that many middle-aged patients are conservative about trying risky eye operations.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When giving financial advice, "be conservative about" projecting future earnings to manage client expectations realistically.

Common error

Avoid using "be conservative about" as an excuse for inaction. While caution is important, don't let it prevent you from making necessary decisions or taking calculated risks.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be conservative about" functions as a directive, advising caution or restraint in relation to a specific action, estimation, or approach. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

20%

Science

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

12%

Wiki

8%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be conservative about" is a directive phrase used to advise caution and careful judgment, commonly found in news, academic, and scientific contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage. Related phrases emphasize similar themes of restraint and thoughtful consideration. When using this phrase, avoid overconfidence and ensure that caution doesn't lead to inaction. Remember to "be conservative about" estimations to manage expectations and prevent overpromising. Its frequency and presence in authoritative sources underscore its importance in clear, effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be circumspect about

Stresses the importance of being wary and unwilling to take risks.

exercise caution regarding

Emphasizes the act of being careful, specifically 'regarding' a certain matter.

be prudent concerning

Highlights the need for wisdom and careful consideration 'concerning' a subject.

tread carefully when

Suggests a delicate and cautious handling 'when' dealing with a sensitive topic.

show restraint with respect to

Focuses on demonstrating self-control 'with respect to' a particular aspect.

be mindful of

Focuses on being aware and attentive to potential risks or consequences.

take a measured approach to

Suggests a deliberate and careful way of dealing 'to' something.

be judicious in

Emphasizes making sound judgments 'in' a specific context.

err on the side of caution with

Implies a preference for avoiding risks 'with' something.

adopt a conservative stance on

Highlights a cautious and traditional perspective 'on' a topic.

FAQs

How can I use "be conservative about" in a sentence?

You can use "be conservative about" to advise caution or restraint in a particular area. For example, "Be conservative about estimating project timelines to avoid overpromising."

What does it mean to "be conservative about" something?

To "be conservative about" something means to exercise caution, restraint, and careful judgment, particularly in making estimates, taking risks, or spending resources. It implies avoiding extremes and prioritizing safety and stability.

Which is a better phrase, "be conservative about" or "be moderate about"?

Both "be conservative about" and "be moderate about" suggest avoiding extremes, but "be conservative about" implies a greater emphasis on caution and risk aversion, while "be moderate about" suggests balance and avoiding excess.

What are some similar phrases to "be conservative about"?

Some similar phrases to "be conservative about" include "be cautious about", "exercise caution regarding", and "be prudent concerning".