Definition of caution
1 : warning, admonishment Her comments were intended as a caution to us to protect our property.
2 : precaution a surgeon taking the caution of sterilizing his instruments
3 : prudent forethought to minimize risk Use caution when operating a chain saw.
4 : one that astonishes or commands attention some shoes you see … these days are a caution — Esquire
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Examples of caution in a Sentence
You should use caution when operating the electric saw.
He injected a note of caution in his talk.
Her financial adviser urged caution before investing in the project.
The roads are slippery: drive with extreme caution.
Her comments were intended as a caution to us to protect our property.
A note of caution: be sure that the electricity is off before you install the ceiling fan.
She was given a caution by the magistrate.
Origin and Etymology of caution
Latin caution-, cautio precaution, from cavēre to be on one's guard — more at hear
First Known Use: 1566
Examples of caution in a Sentence
Officials are cautioning that the war may continue for years.
“Don't decide too quickly,” she cautioned.
He was cautioned for speeding.
1683
First Known Use of caution
1683
CAUTION Defined for English Language Learners
Definition of caution for English Language Learners
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: care taken to avoid danger or risk : a careful attitude or way of behaving
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: a warning telling someone to be careful
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law : a spoken official warning given to someone who has done something illegal but has not committed a serious crime
caution
Definition of caution for English Language Learners
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: to warn or tell (someone) about a possible danger, problem, etc.
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law : to give a caution to (someone)
CAUTION Defined for Kids
Definition of caution for Students
1 : care taken to avoid trouble or danger : precaution They approached the dog with caution.
2 : warning a word of caution
Definition of caution for Students
cautioned
;cautioning
: to warn about danger
Learn More about caution
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Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for caution Spanish Central: Translation of caution Nglish: Translation of caution for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of caution for Arabic speakers
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