conservative
This word carries a strong association with stability and the preservation of the status quo. It suggests a cautious temperament that values proven methods over experimental ones. In a social sense, it often implies a desire to maintain established hierarchies and moral standards. When applied to numbers or estimates, the term shifts from a political or social value to a strategic one. Here, it describes a safety margin, where the speaker deliberately underestimates a gain or overestimates a cost to ensure they are not caught off guard by unexpected failures.
Countable when referring to a person who adheres to conservative political ideologies. Uncountable when referring to the general philosophy or ideology of conservatism.
Meanings
Preferring traditional values and resisting sudden or radical change.
"The company took a conservative approach to the merger."
Holding to traditional attitudes and values, especially regarding politics or religion.
"He has always been very conservative in his beliefs."
Purposely low or cautious to avoid risk or overestimation.
"The architect gave a conservative estimate of the project cost."
A person who is politically conservative.
"The candidate appealed to the conservatives in the district."