Home Dictionary Ccaution

Note: The translation for this entry is currently under quality review. Some content is temporarily displayed in English only.

caution

/ˈkɔːʃ(ə)n/

Transitive Verb[C/U] Both

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').

💬Conversación Casual

🎬Tuesday afternoon; Chloe is texting Maya from a loud campus coffee shop.

Chloe Smith

about to dm my ex. tell me why i should proceed with caution lol

Maya

because you'll just end up spiraling again. put the phone down.

💡

Chloe uses 'proceed with caution' as a semi-ironic way to acknowledge she is doing something risky. Maya responds with 'spiraling', a common term for losing emotional control or falling into a negative mental state, reflecting her role as the grounded friend providing a reality check.

Meanings

Noun

Care taken to avoid danger or mistakes.

"Proceed with caution when driving in heavy fog."

Noun

A warning given to someone to be careful.

"The police gave him a formal caution regarding his behavior."

Transitive Verb

To warn someone about a potential danger or mistake.

"The lifeguard cautioned the swimmers against entering the deep water."

Last Updated: May 25, 2026•Report an Error