Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective cautious contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of cautious are chary, circumspect, and wary. While all these words mean "prudently watchful and discreet in the face of danger or risk," cautious implies the exercise of forethought usually prompted by fear of danger.

a cautious driver

When is it sensible to use chary instead of cautious?

The synonyms chary and cautious are sometimes interchangeable, but chary implies a cautious reluctance to give, act, or speak freely.

chary of signing papers without having read them first

When can circumspect be used instead of cautious?

While the synonyms circumspect and cautious are close in meaning, circumspect suggests less fear and stresses the surveying of all possible consequences before acting or deciding.

circumspect in his business dealings

Where would wary be a reasonable alternative to cautious?

Although the words wary and cautious have much in common, wary emphasizes suspiciousness and alertness in watching for danger and cunning in escaping it.

keeps a wary eye on the competition

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 cautious That solid, if unspectacular, top result reflected the broader trend across this week’s marquee sales: strong demand for blue-chip works, and more cautious interest in younger and mid-career artists. Robb Report, 18 May 2025 Alongside this, Trump expressed cautious optimism about ongoing nuclear negotiations with Iran, though no formal agreement has yet been reached. Amir Daftari, MSNBC Newsweek, 16 May 2025 The Royals will take a cautious approach and are expected to recall top prospect Noah Cameron for the spot start. Jaylon Thompson, Kansas City Star, 16 May 2025 This can lead to overly cautious investment choices and missed opportunities for growth. Bruce Helmer, Twin Cities, 10 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for cautious
Recent Examples of Synonyms for cautious
Adjective
  • Watch out for slippery roads: Be extra careful during the first half hour after rain begins.
    Bay Area Weather Report, Mercury News, 25 May 2025
  • Many participants with conflicting ideologies also reported cohabiting peacefully for the most part, while being careful not to bring up divisive topics and focus on their similarities instead.
    Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 25 May 2025
Adjective
  • While some swear by the cleaning product for disinfecting their dishwasher, others may be wary and opt for something different.
    Kait Hanson, Southern Living, 26 May 2025
  • Those in disaster-prone states, such as Sen. Rick Scott (R-FL) in Florida, hold a pessimistic view of FEMA and are wary of affording it greater power.
    Hailey Bullis, The Washington Examiner, 26 May 2025
Adjective
  • Find the right time: Consider rescheduling strenuous activities to early morning or evening if possible. Be alert to warning signs: Educate yourself about the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
    CA Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 28 May 2025
  • But her watchful, alert bearing imbues the character with a sort of unspoken backstory.
    Leslie Felperin, HollywoodReporter, 22 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Cautious.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/cautious. Accessed 1 Jun. 2025.

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