sense of caution

USAGE SUMMARY

"sense of caution" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that someone is being cautious, wary, or careful in a certain situation. For example: "John proceeded with a sense of caution, determined to avoid any potential missteps."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This sense of caution explains much about the season.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The sense of caution derived partly from the singer.

The New York Times

"Since that time, there is a greater sense of caution.

The New York Times

"Everybody lost any sense of caution, starting with the banks".

The New York Times

Initially, the new rules inspired skaters with a new sense of caution.

The Washington Post

"There's a general sense of caution," Michael Go, the store's general manager, said.

The New York Times

The protests' intensely public nature has fostered a heightened sense of caution.

The Guardian

The number of injuries is kept in check by their maturity and heightened sense of caution.

The New York Times

Older citizens voted for it out of a sense of caution.

The New Yorker

Mr. Ryan said prosecutors were waiting out of a sense of caution and responsibility.

The New York Times

And yet there was a sense of caution, of remaining within the rules.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "sense of caution", consider adding context to clarify the reason for the caution. For example, specify what is causing the caution or what potential negative outcome is being avoided.

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on "sense of caution" as a default description of behavior. Explore more nuanced terms that accurately reflect the specific type of caution being displayed such as prudence, vigilance, or circumspection.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sense of caution" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the object of a verb or the complement of a preposition. It describes a state of being wary and careful, often in response to perceived risks or uncertainties. Ludwig's analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and wide usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "sense of caution" is a commonly used and grammatically sound noun phrase that effectively conveys a state of wariness and careful consideration. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, formal business settings, and scientific discussions. While alternatives exist, such as "degree of prudence" or "level of wariness", "sense of caution" provides a clear and universally understood expression of mindful risk assessment. It is crucial to maintain clarity and specify the reasons behind the caution for maximum communicative impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

degree of prudence

Emphasizes carefulness and wisdom in practical matters.

level of wariness

Highlights a state of being cautious and on guard against potential dangers or problems.

note of vigilance

Emphasizes the importance of being watchful and alert.

shade of circumspectness

This alternative underscores the subtle, yet noticeable, quality of being wary and carefully considering all aspects before acting.

element of circumspection

Focuses on careful consideration of all circumstances before acting.

measure of restraint

Highlights controlled and careful behavior to avoid excess or impulsiveness.

spirit of guardedness

Indicates a protective attitude and careful approach.

air of hesitancy

Suggests a reluctance to act quickly or decisively.

hint of apprehension

Suggests a slight feeling of anxiety or fear about possible future events.

undertone of skepticism

Implies a questioning attitude and doubt about the truth of something.

FAQs

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

You can use "sense of caution" to describe someone's careful and wary approach to a situation. For example, "Due to the recent security breaches, the company adopted a heightened "sense of caution" when handling sensitive data."

What are some alternatives to "sense of caution"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "degree of prudence", "level of wariness", or "element of circumspection" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it better to say "a sense of caution" or "an attitude of caution"?

"A "sense of caution"" typically refers to a specific instance or feeling of being cautious, while "an attitude of caution" describes a more general and persistent tendency to be careful and wary. The choice depends on the specific context you're describing.

What does it mean when someone approaches a situation with "a sense of caution"?

It means they are being careful and deliberate, considering potential risks and drawbacks before acting. This approach is often used in situations where there is a possibility of negative consequences.