sensible caution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sensible caution" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a reasonable and prudent approach to a situation that may involve risk or uncertainty. Example: "In the face of potential dangers, it is wise to exercise sensible caution before making any decisions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Warburton approaches the likelihood of leading the Lions with sensible caution.

The Guardian - Sport

A government has to do something when the public feels threatened, and the political graveyard is littered with the cautionary corpses of politicians who responded with sensible caution when the public demanded dramatic action.

The New York Times

On the same show the moderate conservative columnist, David Brooks, expressed sensible caution about assuming that stricter gun controls could have stopped this particular shooting.Switching to red-blooded conservative talk radio, I found two hosts offering a "move along, nothing to see here" defence of the status quo.

The Economist

The first act toggles between scenes depicting The Post's reporters and editors in a room of Bradlee's house, desperately trying to sort through the material to find and shape a new angle, and Bradlee and others debating with Brian Kelly Jack Gilpinn), a lawyer for The Post who expresses sensible caution, given that no one knew how The Times case would play out.

The New York Times

From a different wing of the party, Tom Watson, a former government minister, has called Miliband's ideas "idiotic" and there has been sensible caution urged by party activists such as Luciana Berger on the basis of more prosaic concerns such as the cost of running more elections.

The Guardian - Opinion

For instance, it is suggested by Nye et al. (2018) in this issue as a companion to ITS along with their sensible caution that drill and practice may be overdone by focusing entirely on solving specific problems.

International Journal of STEM Education

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

pic.twitter.com/zwBvecCA5r People responding to the police warnings had mixed views as to whether the force's cautions were a sensible precaution or preventing families from having a fun day out.

Independent

Try due diligence and sensible professional caution.

The New York Times

David Cameron pre-emptively cautioned against a reaction that turns anger at one foreign policy calamity into an ideological tilt towards isolationism and anti-Americanism – a sensible caveat that is sure to be lost in the coming days.

The Guardian - Opinion

Thereafter he batted with a sensible mix of caution and aggression, reaching his century in 111 balls, taking advantage of McCullum's aggressive field placings and marshalling the lower order skilfully.

The Guardian - Sport

Despite the inconclusive result of this latest meta-analysis, it would be sensible to exercise caution in prescribing bisphosphonates to patients with pre-existing risk factors for UGI cancer, and to have a lower threshold for investigating such patients, should they develop symptoms suggestive of UGI cancer.

BMJ Open

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "sensible caution" with a specific action, such as "exercise sensible caution when investing", to provide actionable advice.

Common error

While "sensible caution" is appropriate for formal writing, avoid using it too frequently in casual conversations. Instead, opt for phrases like "be careful" or "play it safe" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "sensible caution" is to act as a noun phrase, where "sensible" modifies the noun "caution". As indicated by Ludwig, this phrase is correct and usable in English, typically functioning as a subject or object in a sentence.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Social Media

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sensible caution" is a noun phrase that advocates for a thoughtful, well-considered approach to risky situations. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for formal and professional contexts. While it may not be as common in casual conversation, it is frequently used in news, scientific, and business writing to convey a measured and reasonable attitude toward potential hazards. Given its presence in authoritative sources like The Guardian, The New York Times, and The Economist, it's a valuable expression for anyone aiming to communicate prudence and awareness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reasonable prudence

Focuses on the quality of being reasonable while applying caution.

prudent awareness

Emphasizes the awareness of potential risks with careful planning.

informed discretion

Emphasizes caution based on knowledge and awareness.

judicious approach

Stresses the wisdom and good judgement applied.

measured approach

Highlights the controlled and deliberate manner of the caution.

careful consideration

Highlights the thoughtfulness involved in avoiding risks.

well-advised wariness

Stresses the prudence and carefulness in the approach.

circumspect behavior

Emphasizes being wary and unwilling to take risks.

calculated reserve

Focuses on a measured and planned approach to caution.

vigilant carefulness

Focuses on being watchful and meticulously careful.

FAQs

How to use "sensible caution" in a sentence?

You can use "sensible caution" to describe an action, such as, "It's important to approach new investments with "sensible caution"". It emphasizes the need to be both reasonable and careful.

What can I say instead of "sensible caution"?

Alternatives to "sensible caution" include "reasonable prudence", "prudent awareness", or "careful consideration", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "sensible caution"?

The phrase "sensible caution" is appropriate in contexts where a balanced and thoughtful approach to risk management is required. It is often used in formal, professional, or academic settings where clarity and precision are valued.

What's the difference between "sensible caution" and "excessive caution"?

"Sensible caution" implies a balanced and reasonable approach to potential risks, while "excessive caution" suggests an exaggerated or unwarranted level of fear or hesitation that might hinder progress or opportunity.