Precaution: meaning, definitions and examples

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precaution

 

[ prɪˈkɔːʃ(ə)n ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

safety measures

Precaution refers to actions taken in advance to prevent something dangerous or unpleasant from happening. It involves being careful and thoughtful to avoid potential risks.

Synonyms

measure, prevention, safeguard

Examples of usage

  • Taking precautions such as wearing a seatbelt can save lives in a car accident.
  • As a precaution, the company implemented strict security measures to protect sensitive information.
  • It's always better to take precautions than to deal with the consequences of being unprepared.
Context #2 | Noun

medical context

In a medical context, precaution refers to measures taken to prevent the spread of disease or infection. This can include wearing masks, using hand sanitizer, and practicing good hygiene.

Synonyms

health precaution, preventive measure, safety measure

Examples of usage

  • The hospital staff followed strict precautions to avoid the spread of the virus to other patients.
  • As a precaution, travelers are advised to get vaccinated before visiting certain countries.
  • Taking precautions such as washing hands regularly can help prevent the flu.

Translations

Translations of the word "precaution" in other languages:

🇵🇹 precaução

🇮🇳 सावधानी

🇩🇪 Vorsichtsmaßnahme

🇮🇩 pencegahan

🇺🇦 запобіжний захід

🇵🇱 środek ostrożności

🇯🇵 予防策

🇫🇷 précaution

🇪🇸 precaución

🇹🇷 önlem

🇰🇷 예방 조치

🇸🇦 احتياط

🇨🇿 preventivní opatření

🇸🇰 preventívne opatrenie

🇨🇳 预防措施

🇸🇮 previdnost

🇮🇸 varúðarráðstöfun

🇰🇿 сақтық шарасы

🇬🇪 სიფრთხილე

🇦🇿 ehtiyat tədbiri

🇲🇽 precaución

Word origin

The word 'precaution' originated from the Latin word 'praecautio', which means 'a precaution, a safeguard'. It entered the English language in the late 16th century. The concept of taking precautions has always been essential for human survival and safety, dating back to early civilizations that implemented measures to protect themselves from harm. Today, precautions are emphasized in various aspects of life, from health and safety to security and environmental protection.

See also: precautionary.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,875 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.