caution

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: B2 — Upper-Intermediate

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun the trait of being cautious; being attentive to possible danger
  2. noun a warning against certain acts
  3. noun judiciousness in avoiding harm or danger

Etymology

Recorded since 1297 as Middle English caucioun (“bail, guarantee, pledge”), from Old French caution (“security, surety”), itself from Latin cautiō, from cautus, past participle of caveō, cavēre (“be on one's guard”).

In classic literature

Synonyms

cautiousness, carefulness

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