use extreme caution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "use extreme caution" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used as a warning or instruction to be very careful and cautious in a particular situation. Example: "When handling toxic chemicals, it is imperative to use extreme caution to avoid any accidents or injuries."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

If you use a box cutter, straight razor blade, or other extremely sharp object, use extreme caution!

WikiHow

Coals will be extremely hot when transferring from fire, use extreme caution.

WikiHow

Use extreme caution when giving human medications to cats, since the majority are extremely toxic to felines.

WikiHow

Use extreme caution when operating a hot wire cutter because the wires are extremely hot and can cause severe burns.

WikiHow

It urged Americans to use extreme caution.

The New York Times

Use extreme caution and stay in your homes, the police say.

The Guardian

Because of that, pitchers use extreme caution, feeding Cabrera a diet of slop.

The New York Times - Sports

Inspector Gaskin said the deaths were a reminder that climbers needed to use extreme caution.

Independent

With dozens of traffic lights out, warnings on the radio repeatedly implored drivers to use extreme caution.

The New York Times

Some paths remain dangerous and the club urges hikers to use extreme caution as conditions can change rapidly.

The New York Times

Before the ship arrived, personnel had been advised to "use extreme caution" and to remain inside the station in all but the most serious circumstances.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "use extreme caution", be specific about the potential dangers involved. This provides context and helps the audience understand the need for heightened awareness.

Common error

Avoid using "use extreme caution" in situations where the risk is minimal or non-existent. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact when genuine danger is present.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "use extreme caution" functions as an imperative, urging the listener or reader to be especially careful and vigilant. Ludwig examples show it used in a variety of dangerous contexts from handling sharp objects to navigating hazardous situations. This imperative construction serves to directly advise on behavior.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

43%

News & Media

34%

Science

23%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "use extreme caution" is a common and grammatically correct imperative, used to warn about potential dangers and encourage careful behavior. As evidenced by Ludwig's examples, the phrase appears frequently in various contexts such as Wiki articles, news reports, and scientific publications. The register is generally neutral, making it suitable for a broad range of situations. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. When employing this phrase, specificity about the potential risks involved enhances its effectiveness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be exceedingly careful

Emphasizes the level of care needed, making it very high.

take exceptional precautions

Focuses on taking specific preventative measures to avoid potential harm.

handle with maximum care

Shifts the focus to the action of handling something, emphasizing gentleness and attention.

watch your step

A common expression to be careful and aware of one's surroundings, especially when walking.

exercise considerable prudence

Replaces "extreme caution" with a more formal term, indicating thoughtful and careful behavior.

proceed with heightened awareness

Highlights the importance of being alert and attentive to the surroundings or situation.

show great circumspection

Uses a more formal and sophisticated vocabulary to convey careful consideration.

adopt a highly vigilant approach

Emphasizes a proactive and watchful stance, suggesting potential dangers.

mind yourself

A more informal way of saying "be careful", often used in British English.

look alive

An informal way of saying to pay attention and be aware of your surroundings to avoid danger.

FAQs

How can I /s/exercise+caution when handling sensitive information?

When handling sensitive information, you can "exercise caution" by encrypting data, using secure networks, and limiting access to authorized personnel.

Is it more appropriate to say "use extreme caution" or "proceed with caution"?

The choice between "use extreme caution" and "proceed with caution" depends on the severity of the potential risk. "Use extreme caution" suggests a higher level of danger than "proceed with caution".

What does "handle with care" mean in comparison to "use extreme caution"?

"Handle with care" generally refers to physical objects that are fragile, while "use extreme caution" usually applies to situations involving potential danger or risk.

In what scenarios should I /s/err+on+the+side+of+caution rather than "use extreme caution"?

You should "err on the side of caution" when the risks are uncertain, and it's better to be safe than sorry. "Use extreme caution" is more appropriate when specific dangers are known.