utmost caution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "utmost caution" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when emphasizing the highest level of care or attention that should be taken in a particular situation. Example: "When handling hazardous materials, it is essential to proceed with utmost caution to ensure safety."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Any new protocol must be approached with the utmost caution.

The New York Times - Magazine

These documents, therefore, have been interpreted with utmost caution.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"They should be urged to use pesticides only with the utmost caution".

The New York Times

That's why I'd like us to proceed with the utmost caution".

The New Yorker

The government must proceed with the utmost caution and Labour will watch carefully to ensure the correct balance is achieved".

The Guardian

In its response to Mr. Schmidt, CBS said it was treating the material with the utmost caution.

The New York Times

In such conditions, when you don't really know what lies ahead, it's wise to proceed with utmost caution.

The New York Times

That is one of the questions that Forna approaches with the utmost caution in an ambitious and deeply researched novel – and the answers she finds are never easy.

The Guardian - Books

"As Germans we should proceed in this region with utmost caution," she told Bild am Sonntag, in remarks reported in the International Herald Tribune.

The Guardian

Governors rarely involve themselves in private-sector labor disputes, and when they do it is usually with utmost caution, for fear of antagonizing union members or management.

The New York Times

Indeed, in suggesting that the utmost caution is required, we are simply taking the scientists at their word, when they suggest how transformative it really is.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "utmost caution", ensure the context clearly indicates the potential risks or negative consequences that necessitate such care.

Common error

Avoid using "utmost caution" in situations where the risk is minimal or the context is overly dramatic. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "utmost caution" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It emphasizes the need for a high degree of care and attentiveness. Ludwig AI confirms that "utmost caution" is commonly used to underscore the importance of careful action, similar to examples found in news and scientific articles.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "utmost caution" is a frequently used noun phrase that signifies the need for extreme care and attention in potentially risky situations. According to Ludwig, its grammatical status is correct, and it appears most often in News & Media and Science contexts. When writing, remember to use it when the situation warrants a serious and careful approach, avoiding overuse in trivial situations. Alternative phrases like ""extreme prudence"" or ""greatest vigilance"" can offer nuanced variations. The phrase effectively communicates the necessity for circumspection and proactive risk management.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

extreme prudence

Emphasizes careful and circumspect behavior, particularly in avoiding risks.

greatest vigilance

Highlights the need for constant watchfulness and alertness to potential dangers.

maximum care

Focuses on providing the highest level of attention and concern to prevent harm.

extreme care

Similar to "utmost caution", but places more emphasis on the degree of attentiveness.

heightened awareness

Emphasizes the importance of being fully conscious of potential risks and dangers.

careful consideration

Highlights the need to think thoroughly and deliberately before taking action.

circumspect approach

Suggests a careful and wary method of dealing with a situation.

prudent handling

Focuses on managing a situation with wisdom and foresight to avoid negative consequences.

judicious management

Highlights the importance of using good judgment and skill in handling a situation.

discreet handling

Focuses on careful and confidential management of a situation.

FAQs

How do I use "utmost caution" in a sentence?

You can use "utmost caution" to emphasize the need for extreme care and attention in situations that involve potential risks or dangers. For example: "We must proceed with "utmost caution" when handling hazardous materials".

What phrases can I use instead of "utmost caution"?

Alternatives to "utmost caution" include "extreme prudence", "greatest vigilance", or "maximum care", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "utmost caution and care"?

While "caution" and "care" are similar, using both can emphasize the importance of both attentiveness and preventative measures. However, consider whether using just one phrase, like "utmost prudence", might be more concise.

When is it appropriate to advise someone to use "utmost caution"?

Advise the use of ""utmost caution"" when potential consequences are severe, irreversible, or involve significant risk to safety, health, or important assets. For example: "The president's own Deepwater Horizon commission, while not recommending against Arctic drilling, urged the administration in 2011 to exercise the "utmost caution".