overcautious

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 overcautious The uncomfortable truth is that finance leaders are repeating the exact same pattern of overcautious adoption that cost them months of competitive advantage with generative AI. David Zwick, Forbes.com, 8 Sep. 2025 The record’s riveting narrative and political conscience stood out in an age of generic radio fare and overcautious stars. Holden Seidlitz, New Yorker, 10 Aug. 2025 In this light, district actions reflect concern for the future — which supporters see as prudent and critics as overcautious. Howard Blume, Los Angeles Times, 26 June 2024 Or, at least, overcautious, overwatchful young men and women. Han Ong, The New Yorker, 9 Jan. 2023 And yet, since the spring of 2021, pundits have mocked people who continue to think this way for being irrational and overcautious, and government officials have consistently framed COVID as a matter of personal responsibility. Ed Yong, The Atlantic, 30 Sep. 2022 Be overcautious and a perfectly clear day goes to waste; be too bold and put the performers, audience and equipment at risk. Abby Carney, New York Times, 4 Aug. 2021 Beyond its rejection of militia involvement, the United States has also been criticized for overcautious use of air strikes and for its slow and insufficient delivery of military equipment to Iraqi armed forces. Nussaibah Younis, Foreign Affairs, 7 Oct. 2015
Recent Examples of Synonyms for overcautious
Adjective
  • In the bit, Rihanna and Ronnie (Andy Samberg) are dropping knowledge to a group of grade schoolers with the singer crooning in her power range as timid Ronnie can barely rise above a whisper to her utter consternation.
    Gil Kaufman, Billboard, 14 Oct. 2025
  • Finally, the Gators’ timid portal strategy is deliberate, not an unwillingness to adapt.
    Matt Baker, New York Times, 2 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • However, owners should also be cautious of potential dangers and hazards of outdoor adventures, as this pet parent learned from the dog's frightful fall.
    Liz O'Connell, MSNBC Newsweek, 14 Oct. 2025
  • Hiring has ground to nearly a halt, which could partly reflect a more cautious approach by many firms in the wake of the uncertainty created by the higher tariffs.
    Jessica Coacci, Fortune, 14 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • He was gone for two years, returning to the Caribbean in 1509, and in his later writings was circumspect about his own service to the Conquest.
    Greg Grandin September 23, Literary Hub, 23 Sep. 2025
  • Although Harris earned a reputation as guarded and circumspect, the book has the tone of someone who is finished biting her tongue.
    Chris Megerian, Fortune, 19 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Overcautious.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/overcautious. Accessed 20 Oct. 2025.

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