utmost precaution

USAGE SUMMARY

"utmost precaution" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You might use it to refer to the need for special care when handling a delicate or hazardous situation. For example: "We must take the utmost precaution when dealing with the hazardous material."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

"The utmost precaution should be applied when using it and when speaking about it.

The Guardian - Sport

The United States military has also faced much criticism for killing civilians in Iraq and Afghanistan, despite what officials say is the utmost precaution against doing so.

The New York Times

Papsidera has used the utmost precaution and discretion.

Huffington Post

Butler reported that "notwithstanding my utmost Precaution and Endeavours to save the Women and Children, I could not prevent some of them falling unhappy Victims to the Fury of the Savages," but also that he spent most of his time guarding the fort during the raid.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Those of us who have dealt with X-rays are very concerned with radiation safety and use the utmost precautions.

The New York Times

Yield response factor (ky) values of 0.96 and 1.57 were determined for the normal and paired-row planting methods, respectively, suggesting utmost precautions when using the paired-row planting in areas with limited water supply.

Agricultural Water Management

"And if moving is really necessary, we will have to work more closely with technicians and engineers and take the utmost precautions". Some museum officials said the accident might also influence future decisions to lend works and transport them elsewhere.

The New York Times - Arts

Scientists seeking to identify the virus are taking the utmost precautions as they work in highly secure laboratories categorized at the "three-plus" level, half a step below the maximum-security level-four labs.

The New York Times

As I said this morning, this is obviously a very serious situation, and every American should know that their entire government is taking the utmost precautions and preparations.

Huffington Post

Even with the utmost precautions, there are still ways for Facebook to access personal information.

WikiHow

In a statement on Thursday, HBO reiterated that it took "every precaution to ensure that our horses were treated humanely and with the utmost care, exceeding every safeguard of all protocols and guidelines required of the production".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing safety protocols or handling sensitive information, using "utmost precaution" underscores the critical need for meticulousness and care to prevent potential harm or breaches.

Common error

Avoid using "utmost precaution" in everyday conversations where less formal language is more appropriate. It's best reserved for situations requiring a serious and careful approach.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "utmost precaution" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition to emphasize the degree of care or preventative measures taken. This is supported by Ludwig, which shows examples in news and media highlighting actions taken with "utmost precaution".

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "utmost precaution" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to emphasize the need for extreme care and thoroughness, as confirmed by Ludwig. While its frequency is rare, it commonly appears in news and media, as well as wiki content. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase highlights critical safety considerations. It is best used in serious or professional contexts where conveying the importance of careful measures is paramount. When a less formal alternative is needed, consider "caution" or "care".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

highest degree of care

Replaces "precaution" with a more general term for attentiveness, emphasizing the intensity of care given.

extreme vigilance

Focuses on the watchfulness aspect of precaution, suggesting a state of heightened awareness.

maximum safety measures

Highlights the safety aspect of precaution, using stronger terms to indicate the extent of the measures taken.

greatest level of attentiveness

Similar to "highest degree of care", but emphasizes mental focus rather than physical actions.

strict preventative steps

Shifts the focus to the preventative nature of precaution, suggesting a firm adherence to specific rules.

most diligent safeguards

Emphasizes the protective aspect, implying careful and persistent implementation of protective measures.

meticulous preventative action

Highlights the thoroughness and precision of the preventative measures.

exceptional level of caution

Emphasizes the cautiousness involved, suggesting a particularly wary approach.

unparalleled level of circumspection

Highlights the careful consideration and awareness of all potential consequences.

comprehensive set of safety protocols

Emphasizes that a wide range of specific, established safety rules are followed.

FAQs

How can I use "utmost precaution" in a sentence?

You can use "utmost precaution" to emphasize the need for careful measures in a situation, such as: "We must proceed with "utmost precaution" when handling the hazardous materials".

What is a synonym for "utmost precaution"?

Synonyms for "utmost precaution" include phrases like "extreme vigilance", "highest degree of care", or "maximum safety measures".

Is "utmost precaution" formal or informal?

"Utmost precaution" leans towards the formal side, making it more suitable for professional or serious contexts rather than casual conversation.

When should I use "utmost precaution" instead of "caution"?

Use "utmost precaution" when you want to highlight the extreme importance of being careful and thorough, especially when dealing with high-risk situations. "Caution" is a more general term for being careful.