caution
/ˈkɔːʃ(ə)n/
Caution is characterized by a state of heightened alertness and restraint. It describes the mental and physical act of slowing down to assess risk before proceeding, creating an image of hesitation born from prudence.
Unlike 'care', which can be gentle or nurturing, caution is specifically defensive. It focuses on the prevention of negative outcomes—danger, error, or legal trouble.
In a legal context, it carries a more formal, authoritative weight. A "caution" is not just a piece of advice but a documented warning that serves as a precursor to official punishment.
Uncountable when referring to the general state of being careful ('proceed with caution'). Countable when referring to a specific official warning issued by an authority figure ('the police gave him a caution').
💬Casual Conversation
about to dm my ex. tell me why i should proceed with caution lol
about to dm my ex. tell me why i should proceed with caution lol
because you'll just end up spiraling again. put the phone down.
because you'll just end up spiraling again. put the phone down.
Meanings
Examples
You should exercise extreme caution when handling volatile chemicals.
The officer issued a formal caution to the teenager for trespassing.
The teacher cautioned the students about the difficulty of the exam.