Synonyms for

Cautiously

Verb / ˈkɔ:ʃʌsli: / Another word for cautiously — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

being careful to avoid danger or risks

Synonyms & similar words

carelessly conservatively carefully incautiously guardedly carefully prudently warily circumspectly heedfully deliberately vigilantly attentively watchfully sensitively alertly gingerly mindfully discreetly chary guardedly conservatively moderately tentatively

Synonyms by register

Formal

prudently discreetly circumspectly warily

Informal

carefully gingerly slowly

Literary

tentatively deliberately

Antonyms

recklessly heedlessly boldly rashly carelessly hastily imprudently

Common collocations

  • proceed cautiously
  • move cautiously
  • act cautiously
  • advise cautiously
  • speak cautiously
  • handle cautiously
  • approach cautiously

Word family

noun caution
verb caution
adjective cautious
adverb cautiously

Usage note

Often used to describe actions taken in situations of potential danger or uncertainty. It implies a deliberate slowing down or careful consideration of risks.

Example sentences

  1. She cautiously crossed the street.
  2. He approached the wild animal cautiously.
  3. The hiker walked cautiously on the slippery rocks.
  4. The driver drove the car cautiously in the snow.
  5. The child touched the hot stove cautiously.

Quotes

  • "Cautiously optimistic" - Aesop
  • "The wise are instructed by reason, average minds by experience, the stupid by necessity, and the brute by instinct." - Marcus Tullius Cicero
  • "We must walk consciously only part way toward our goal and then leap in the dark to our success." - Henry David Thoreau

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