show circumspection

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "show circumspection" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when advising someone to be cautious and thoughtful in their actions or decisions. Example: "In negotiations, it is important to show circumspection to avoid misunderstandings and conflicts."

✓ Grammatically correct

EU Parlament

News & Media

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

I should also like to draw your attention to an amendment tabled by our former colleague, Bernard Kouchner, who asked us to show circumspection when resorting to embargoes or blockades, since it is the ordinary people who suffer in those cases instead of the authorities we want to sanction.

EU Parlament

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Pravda said all states involved should display caution, circumspection, and self-control.

The Guardian

The rule does not explicitly prohibit taking official legislative action in case of a financial conflict; it simply demands that a member show, "added circumspection".

Huffington Post

Richard also showed greater circumspection in his patronage.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Canny circumspection is shown by someone who is "wise, but shuns the spotlight", like the anonymous British graffiti artist Banksy or Lord of the Ring's Gandalf.

The Guardian

173 175 Despite the optimism that miRNAs may represent robust biomarkers, the results should be treated with some circumspection; recent reviews showed that up to 58% (n=47) of the reported tumour related miRNAs are not disease specific.

Gut

Suggestions that another hit US show, Glee, has helped the troupe's fortunes are met by Lloyd with circumspection.

Independent

She goes on to write that Johnson's words show a "deep psychological investment in masculine self-image," one that "has the power to subvert circumspection, logic, prudence, morality and even national self-interest in matters of national decision making, and create the illusion that there are no alternatives".

The New Yorker

Some circumspection is required, however, because histone deacetylase inhibitors, including valproate, may induce lytic replication, as has been shown for KSHV and EBV (Klass et al, 2005; Feng and Kenney, 2006; Lu et al, 2006).

British Journal of Cancer

Her circumspection proved justified.

The Economist

Here, he retreats into circumspection.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "show circumspection", consider the context to ensure it aligns with the desired tone of caution and thoughtfulness. It's particularly suitable in situations requiring careful judgment.

Common error

Avoid using "show circumspection" in casual conversations or informal writing. Opt for simpler, more direct alternatives like "be careful" or "think twice" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "show circumspection" functions as a directive or recommendation, advising someone to exhibit caution and careful consideration. It emphasizes the importance of thoughtful action to avoid potential pitfalls, as seen in the example from Ludwig where it suggests being circumspect when considering embargoes.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "show circumspection" is a grammatically sound phrase that advises careful and thoughtful action. Ludwig AI indicates it's appropriate for formal contexts, as it encourages prudence and foresight, and it is classified as rare in terms of frequency. While synonyms like "exercise caution" or "demonstrate prudence" exist, the specific nuance of "show circumspection" is best suited for situations needing strategic diplomacy. Be mindful of overuse in informal settings, and leverage it primarily in professional or analytical communications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exercise caution

Focuses on actively being careful and avoiding risks.

demonstrate prudence

Emphasizes wisdom and careful judgment in practical matters.

display carefulness

Highlights the quality of being meticulous and attentive to detail.

exhibit thoughtfulness

Suggests considering the potential consequences of actions.

act with deliberation

Implies a slow and careful approach to decision-making.

proceed cautiously

Directs attention to a step-by-step approach, minimizing risk at each stage.

adopt a watchful approach

Emphasizes vigilance and careful observation.

maintain a guarded attitude

Highlights a reserved and careful demeanor, often in situations of uncertainty.

take a measured approach

Implies a balanced and considered way of handling a situation.

be discreet

Focuses on avoiding causing offense or revealing sensitive information.

FAQs

How can I use "show circumspection" in a sentence?

"Show circumspection" is used to advise someone to be cautious and thoughtful in their actions or decisions. For example: "In negotiations, it is important to "show circumspection" to avoid misunderstandings and conflicts."

What are some alternatives to "show circumspection"?

You can use alternatives like "exercise caution", "demonstrate prudence", or "display carefulness", depending on the specific context.

Is "show circumspection" formal or informal?

"Show circumspection" is generally considered a formal expression. In more casual settings, simpler alternatives like "be careful" or "think twice" might be more appropriate.

What does it mean to "show circumspection"?

To "show circumspection" means to exhibit caution, thoughtfulness, and careful consideration in one's actions and decisions, often to avoid potential risks or negative consequences.