expressing caution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "expressing caution" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the act of indicating or signaling a need for carefulness or prudence in a particular situation. Example: "The report concluded with a section expressing caution about the potential risks involved in the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

Even before the announcement Monday, Republicans were expressing caution.

The New York Times

Both have disappointed some liberal allies by expressing caution about the Courts' aggressively expanding rights or bringing about social change.

The New Yorker

Some Republican moderates seeking to represent areas with a healthy presence of Democrats are holding back, expressing caution about a unilateral strike against Iraq.

The New York Times

Dr. Elliott Antman, representing the heart association, applauded the National Institutes of Health for sponsoring the study while also expressing caution.

The New York Times - Health

Arm also failed to impress, down 20.5p to 595.5p after expressing caution on the outlook for Christmas sales for the mobile phones and tablets which use its chip designs.

The Guardian - Business

With the Japanese press expressing caution about Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi's visit to North Korea on Sept. 17, Mr. Koizumi has told top officials of his Liberal Democratic Party that he is staking his "political life" on the visit.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Some doctors express caution.

The New York Times - Health

Some others expressed caution.

The New York Times

Election law specialists expressed caution.

The New York Times

Mr. London expressed caution, given the volatility.

The New York Times

Several groups have expressed caution about the debt relief plan.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When "expressing caution", be specific about the reasons for your hesitation. This adds credibility and clarity to your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "expressing caution" as a generic phrase. Always provide context or reasons for the caution to make your statement more meaningful and impactful. For example, instead of just saying "experts are expressing caution", specify what they are cautious about.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "expressing caution" functions as a verbal phrase, often acting as part of a clause that describes someone's attitude or action. It's used to indicate that someone is signaling a need for carefulness or prudence. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "expressing caution" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to signal the need for careful consideration or prudence. Ludwig confirms this. It commonly appears in news, scientific, and formal business contexts, serving to temper enthusiasm with prudence. When using "expressing caution", it's beneficial to specify the reasons for the caution to add clarity. Alternatives like "voicing reservations" or "indicating wariness" can provide nuanced variations. Be mindful of overusing the phrase generically; always contextualize your caution with specific details.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

taking a cautious approach

Indicates a general way of dealing with situations carefully.

voicing reservations

Specifically refers to expressing doubts or concerns.

registering concern

Highlights the act of formally noting or displaying worry.

indicating wariness

Highlights a state of being cautious due to potential dangers or problems.

proceeding with care

Emphasizes careful movement or action in a situation.

showing hesitancy

Focuses on the outward display of hesitation.

displaying skepticism

Focuses on showing doubt about the truth of something.

signaling prudence

Emphasizes wisdom and carefulness in practical affairs.

exercising vigilance

Highlights the act of keeping careful watch for possible danger or difficulties.

demonstrating circumspection

Focuses on being unwilling to take risks.

FAQs

How can I use "expressing caution" in a sentence?

You can use "expressing caution" to describe someone's attitude or statement, such as: "The analysts are expressing caution about the company's future earnings." or "Several groups have "expressed caution" about the new policy."

What's a formal alternative to "expressing caution"?

In formal contexts, consider alternatives like "registering concern", "voicing reservations", or "indicating wariness" which offer a more elevated tone while retaining the core meaning.

Is it always necessary to specify what one is cautious about when "expressing caution"?

While not always mandatory, specifying the subject of caution enhances clarity and impact. For example, rather than simply stating "the committee is expressing caution", clarifying it to "the committee is expressing caution about the project's feasibility" provides more valuable information.

How does "expressing caution" differ from "issuing a warning"?

"Expressing caution" typically involves a more general and less forceful indication of potential risks or concerns. "Issuing a warning", on the other hand, suggests a more direct and urgent communication about a specific danger or negative outcome.