caution 1 of 2

Definition of cautionnext
as in to warn
to give notice to beforehand especially of danger or risk the doctor cautioned that I should still be careful using my sprained wrist for the next several days

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caution

2 of 2

noun

1
2
as in wonder
something extraordinary or surprising how she manages to drive her car without destroying the neighborhood is a caution

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3
as in warning
something that tells of approaching danger or risk this is just a caution that the following paragraph practically gives away the entire plot of the movie

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4
5
as in precaution
a measure taken to preclude loss or injury the standard caution of donning surgical gloves before performing any kind of dental work

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of caution
Verb
Oury cautions visitors to Haleiwa exercise patience and understanding as many may have lost their homes or are experiencing intense financial strain and trauma. Tiare-Leiana Solis-Ridgell, Condé Nast Traveler, 30 Mar. 2026 Consultants from both parties caution against extrapolating too much from special elections with limited turnout. ABC News, 30 Mar. 2026
Noun
That followed gains for stock markets in much of Europe, but caution was still prevalent throughout financial markets. Stan Choe, Chicago Tribune, 30 Mar. 2026 Hamlin led 292 of the first 317 laps, but a caution for debris on the racetrack with 89 laps to go came out at the perfect time for Elliott, who was fading rapidly on older tires. Jordan Bianchi, New York Times, 30 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for caution
Recent Examples of Synonyms for caution
Verb
  • While avalanche danger is beginning to decrease in some areas, experts warn that large and destructive slides remain possible—especially in areas with deeper snow.
    Callie Zanandrie, CBS News, 27 Mar. 2026
  • But a state Transportation Board member warned that if the project was cancelled, the Charlotte region would lose out on the $600 million planned for the roadway.
    Desiree Mathurin March 27, Charlotte Observer, 27 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • The two big investments in their front seven — particularly Phillips’ whopping four-year, $120 million deal — also meant the Panthers would have to exercise financial prudence with their other additions, at least one of which was a head-scratcher.
    Joseph Person, New York Times, 11 Mar. 2026
  • This is not the time for fiscal prudence for the Sharks.
    Dieter Kurtenbach, Mercury News, 4 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Visit Lake Tahoe shares the wonder of this iconic alpine lake with the world and works passionately to preserve its grandeur and good times for endless generations.
    Brian Higgins, Outside, 25 Mar. 2026
  • But what could have been a one-hit-wonder sparked a new generation of projects, driven by Belgian producers from both sides of the country.
    Kevin Giraud, Variety, 25 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Iran, meanwhile, is issuing stark warnings.
    Adeola Adeosun, MSNBC Newsweek, 31 Mar. 2026
  • Strong winds are occurring but are not so strong as to warrant a High wind warning.
    CA Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 31 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Understanding the gravity of a red flag warning and adhering to these precautions is pivotal in reducing the risk of wildfires during these hazardous conditions.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 28 Mar. 2026
  • Understanding the gravity of a red flag warning and adhering to these precautions is pivotal in mitigating the risk of wildfires during these perilous conditions.
    KANSAS CITY STAR WEATHER BOT, Kansas City Star, 27 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • The California Highway Patrol said its officers were alerted by the San Francisco Police Department that a large group of bicyclists was riding through the streets recklessly and were believed to be heading to the Bay Bridge, with the intent of taking over the bridge.
    Brandon Downs, CBS News, 29 Mar. 2026
  • Local media reported the bodies were transported in a government vehicle by unidentified individuals and buried hastily, with some gravediggers later alerting police.
    Greg Wehner, FOXNews.com, 29 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Organizations can benefit by valuing carefulness and concentration not as an obligation, but as a fundamental pillar of success.
    Heather V. MacArthur, Forbes.com, 22 Jan. 2026
  • Just as essential a consideration as carefulness for committee members, though, is speed.
    Chris Stirewalt, The Hill, 26 Aug. 2025
Noun
  • Today, there's writing on the wall outside, proclaiming the miracle of Ho Khanh.
    Nicole Young, CBS News, 29 Mar. 2026
  • But the miracle that happened in New England two centuries ago now is in China.
    Edward Lotterman, Twin Cities, 29 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Caution.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/caution. Accessed 1 Apr. 2026.

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