caution

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "caution" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it as a verb, noun, or adjective to refer to being careful or vigilant. Example: Drivers should exercise caution when driving in icy conditions.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

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 Economist

In the summer of 2007, she was one of the first at Federal Open Market Committee [FOMC] meetings to caution that the subprime mortgage crisis would lead to a recession, while others appeared more concerned about inflation.

The Guardian - Opinion

Derek Bardowell of the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, who has managed mentor programmes in the past, has a word of caution: "Many people do it [mentoring] quite badly.

The Guardian

Your banks have lent my country crazy sums of money, way beyond the bounds of caution or common sense.

The Guardian - Opinion

Andrew Mitchell, the former Tory chief whip who is leading negotiations to try and broker a deal between the government and the rebels, told MPs: "The government is absolutely right to proceed with caution on the human rights legislation as outlined today.

The Guardian

All the parties will treat the poll with caution.

The Guardian

Here, a note of caution for parents: the baby-listener we brought didn't reach through any of the hotel's giant stone walls, so you have to be comfortable with just going up to check on them… or not checking on them and just vaguely hoping they're OK, which, after about an hour, I decided was by far the best course.

The Guardian - Travel

The only note of caution in backing Redmayne so whole-heartedly is that the London critics did go for Keaton … So that category perhaps isn't quite as tightly sewn up as best actress.

The Guardian - Film

Even if we have a hot day in the UK and there are guys running laps, they have to take some caution.

The Guardian - Sport

He added a note of caution, however, for anyone expecting ECB support for Greece and its banks to be unlimited.

The Guardian - Business

So the figures should be treated with caution".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "caution" as a noun, consider the tone and level of formality required by the context. "Caution" can range from a gentle suggestion to a stern warning, and using more vivid or descriptive adjectives can make the writing more impactful.

Common error

Avoid using "caution" interchangeably with words like "fear" or "anxiety". "Caution" implies reasoned carefulness, while "fear" and "anxiety" suggest emotional reactions. Replace "caution" with more direct words like "warn" or "advise" to improve the concision of your writing. Be clear about what the user needs to be cautious of.

Linguistic Context

The word "caution" functions primarily as a noun referring to carefulness or a warning. It can also be used as a verb meaning to warn someone. Ludwig AI provides examples of both usages, demonstrating its versatility in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "caution" is a versatile word, functioning as both a noun and a verb, primarily used to advise carefulness or issue a warning. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its correct grammatical usage and prevalence across various domains, particularly in news, business, and scientific contexts. While generally neutral to formal in tone, its effectiveness lies in prompting thoughtful consideration and risk mitigation. When writing, use "caution" to inject a sense of mindful awareness of what should be avoided, as opposed to the more emotional implications of words like fear and anxiety.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

prudence

Focuses on wisdom and carefulness in practical affairs.

wariness

Highlights suspicion and vigilance towards potential dangers.

circumspection

Emphasizes careful consideration of all circumstances before acting.

forethought

Highlights planning and anticipation of future events.

carefulness

Indicates diligence and attention to detail to avoid mistakes.

alertness

Emphasizes being fully aware and ready to respond to potential hazards.

vigilance

Implies constant watchfulness to detect and prevent danger.

admonition

Refers to a firm warning or reprimand.

caveat

Highlights a specific warning or condition.

precaution

Emphasizes measures taken in advance to prevent harm.

FAQs

How is "caution" used as a verb?

As a verb, "caution" means to warn or advise someone to be careful. For example, "The doctor cautioned the patient about the side effects of the medication."

What are some synonyms for "caution" when used as a noun?

When used as a noun, synonyms for "caution" include "prudence", "wariness", "circumspection", and "carefulness".

In what contexts is it most appropriate to use the word "caution"?

The word "caution" is appropriate in contexts where a potential danger or negative outcome exists, and careful consideration or action is required. This could be in medical, financial, or safety-related situations.

What's the difference between "caution" and "warning"?

"Caution" implies a milder form of alerting someone to potential danger, while "warning" typically suggests a more immediate or serious threat. You might exercise "caution" while driving in the rain, but heed a "warning" about an approaching tornado.