Synonyms for

Precaution

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

Definition

Precaution means an action taken to prevent something dangerous or unpleasant from happening.

Synonyms & similar words

care safeguard guard caution forethought care prevention protection safeguard safeguards defence defenses security measures preparations preventive preemptive preventative safety measure preparation precautions preparatory

Synonyms by register

Formal

safeguard precautionary measure preventive step protective measure

Informal

heads-up heads-up warning heads-up notice heads-up alert

Literary

foresight providence

Antonyms

carelessness negligence recklessness imprudence rashness inadvertence

Common collocations

  • take precautions
  • precautionary measures
  • safety precaution
  • precaution against
  • necessary precaution
  • precautionary principle
  • precautionary steps

Word family

noun precaution
verb precaution
adjective precautionary

Usage note

Precaution refers to an action taken in advance to prevent something undesirable from happening. It is often used in the plural form 'precautions'.

Example sentences

  1. I took a precaution and wore a helmet when I rode my bike.
  2. She always takes precautions when she goes for a hike in the woods.
  3. We need to take more precautions to prevent the spread of germs.
  4. He forgot to take his usual precautions and ended up getting sick.
  5. The company is taking precautions to prevent a cyber attack.

Quotes

  • Precaution is better than cure.
  • An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
  • Better safe than sorry.

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words