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

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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
Gray Thompson cautioned that while survivors waiting for relief can defer taxes or amend past returns, resolving issues with government programs, such as qualifying for college financial aid, is much harder. ABC News, 20 Apr. 2026 The researcher cautioned that the intelligence official’s release may slow down any deportation, extradition or asylum process. Maria Clara Matos, Miami Herald, 20 Apr. 2026
Noun
Residents are urged to exercise caution handling any potential ignition source, including machinery, cigarettes, and matches. Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 20 Apr. 2026 And James sounded the note of caution, as the veteran leader should. Jim Alexander, Oc Register, 19 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for caution
Recent Examples of Synonyms for caution
Verb
  • The world is facing its biggest energy security threat in history, Fatih Birol, the head of the International Energy Agency, warned today.
    Sean Nevin, NBC news, 24 Apr. 2026
  • Kratsios warned that such campaigns can extract core capabilities from American models.
    Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 23 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • By all accounts, being a milquetoast is a sort of vice—cowardice masquerading as prudence.
    Nikhil Krishnan, New Yorker, 20 Apr. 2026
  • China by contrast is beginning to look like a model of prudence and responsibility.
    Anatol Lieven, Twin Cities, 10 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Stretching across Washington, Oregon and Idaho, the region is packed with natural wonders and cultural attractions that reward every type of traveler.
    Lauren Schuster, Kansas City Star, 23 Apr. 2026
  • No wonder wise chickens withdraw to the coop without prompting at cockshut.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 23 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • And that was supposed to be one of the Game 2 warnings.
    C.J. Holmes, New York Daily News, 21 Apr. 2026
  • Reports of a crash on southbound US-169 South A traffic warning has been issued after a crash on US-169 South between US-69 South and US-69 North.
    Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 20 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Dubious precautions Mounting interest in the potential benefits of psychedelic drugs has led to a rise in psychedelic retreats around the world.
    Theara Coleman, TheWeek, 24 Apr. 2026
  • People living in areas with red flag warnings are asked to take extra precautions to avoid accidentally igniting a fire.
    Adam Kovac, Scientific American, 23 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • Anybody who sees any sort of spill or leak in progress should call 911 and the proper authorities will be alerted, Ravitch said.
    Phil Diehl, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 Apr. 2026
  • The writers got the studios to agree to alert the union if a studio licenses writers’ work for AI training and continue holding meetings with the union on implementation.
    Katie Campione, Deadline, 26 Apr. 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
  • The Broncos went 15-4 last year, testing the expiration dates on miracle finishes, while suffocating opponents with a relentless defense.
    Troy Renck, Denver Post, 25 Apr. 2026
  • From above, the city appeared like a miracle.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 24 Apr. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Caution.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/caution. Accessed 27 Apr. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on caution

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster