lack of caution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lack of caution" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use this phrase to describe someone who is not being careful enough, or who is acting without considering the potential consequences. For example, you could say "His lack of caution resulted in a lot of costly mistakes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

But their overall breadth and lack of caution will fulfill big business's wildest dreams.

University of California, Berkeley

"The relative lack of caution in the real estate capital markets is a concern.

The Guardian - Business

But Tam's lack of caution gives a kind of authority to his denial that Ravi was homophobic.

The New Yorker

Peter Costello, a senior Liberal who once coveted Mr Turnbull's job, has groused about his lack of caution.

The Economist

Fitt's strengths were his gregarious ability to talk, drink and empathise across any divide, and his lack of caution when he felt an injustice threatened.

The Guardian

"I tell people that their lack of caution regarding any of these issues is going to help put my kids through college,"' Mr. Scher said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

"I was struck by the lack of canniness, caution, cunning," Carr said of Labor's period in power since 2007.

The Guardian

"There is a great lack of military caution and prudence on the part of those in command here," McBeth observed in a lengthy letter in February 1863.

The New York Times

What bothers me is the lack of oversight, caution and vigilance when science and business, in this case Big Ag, intersect.

Huffington Post

This is consistent with findings that, in certain settings (e.g., male-dominated groups such as sports clubs and political parties), group dialogue may reinforce health-damaging macho masculinities associated with alcohol consumption and lack of sexual caution (Campbell et al., 2013; Gregson et al., 2011).

AIDS Care - Psychological and Socio-Medical Aspects of AIDS/HIV

"We're not going to win a hockey game tonight, 1-0," Coach John Tortorella, worried about a lack of scoring, cautioned before the game.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing decisions or actions, specify the area in which "lack of caution" is evident to provide context and improve clarity. For example, "lack of caution in financial investments".

Common error

Avoid using "lack of caution" without specifying the domain or context where the caution is lacking. Be specific about what area needs more careful consideration to make the statement more meaningful and actionable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lack of caution" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a deficiency or absence of careful consideration, as supported by examples Ludwig provides.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

24%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Wiki

14%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lack of caution" is a commonly used noun phrase that signifies an absence of careful consideration or due diligence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and suitable for use in a variety of contexts, particularly in news, scientific, and academic writing. Analysis of various sources, as shown by Ludwig, reveals that the phrase serves to describe or critique actions that are deemed imprudent or negligent. When using "lack of caution", specifying the context of the caution lacking enhances clarity and impact. While alternatives like "carelessness", "recklessness", and "imprudence" exist, "lack of caution" maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse audiences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

carelessness

Highlights negligence and a lack of attention to potential risks.

recklessness

Emphasizes the disregard for danger and the potential for harmful consequences.

imprudence

Focuses on the unwisdom of the action, differing from a general lack of care.

negligence

Implies a failure to exercise the standard of care that a reasonable person would.

rashness

Conveys acting hastily and without due consideration.

thoughtlessness

Emphasizes a lack of consideration for others or the potential consequences of one's actions.

foolhardiness

Indicates a foolishly bold or daring attitude.

impetuosity

Highlights acting on sudden impulses without thinking.

indiscretion

Focuses on a lack of good judgment and the potential for embarrassment or harm.

audacity

Suggests boldness or daring, often with a negative connotation of excessive risk.

FAQs

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

You can use "lack of caution" to describe someone's behavior or actions, such as, "His "lack of caution" led to several mistakes." or "The company's "lack of caution" regarding safety regulations resulted in an accident.

What are some alternatives to "lack of caution"?

Alternatives include "carelessness", "recklessness", "imprudence", or "negligence" depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "lack of caution" or "absence of caution"?

Both "lack of caution" and "absence of caution" are grammatically correct and have similar meanings. "Lack of caution" is generally more common and sounds more natural in everyday language. "Absence of caution" might be preferred in more formal or technical contexts.

What does "lack of caution" imply?

The phrase "lack of caution" implies a failure to exercise due diligence or care, potentially leading to negative consequences. It suggests an oversight or disregard for potential risks and dangers.