Precautionary: meaning, definitions and examples

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precautionary

 

[ prɪˈkɔːʃəˌneri ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

safety measures

Done as a precaution or preventive measure; intended to prevent possible harm or trouble.

Synonyms

preventive, protective, prudent, safety.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
precautionary

Used when taking actions to prevent something bad from happening, often before there's an immediate threat.

  • They took precautionary measures to avoid any accidents during the event
preventive

Typically used in medical or health contexts to describe actions taken to prevent illness or problems before they happen.

  • The doctor recommended a preventive check-up to catch any potential health issues early
protective

Generally used when describing measures or items designed to keep someone or something safe from harm or damage.

  • He wore protective gear while working in the laboratory
safety

Refers to the condition of being protected from or unlikely to cause danger, risk, or injury.

  • They always wear helmets for safety reasons when riding their bikes
prudent

Used to describe actions that are taken with careful thought and good judgment, usually to avoid risks or problems.

  • It would be prudent to save some of your income for unexpected expenses

Examples of usage

  • Precautionary measures were taken to ensure the safety of all participants.
  • They issued a precautionary warning ahead of the storm.
  • The evacuation was precautionary, to avoid any potential danger.
  • The government advised precautionary vaccinations for travelers to the affected region.
  • She always carries a first aid kit as a precautionary measure.

Translations

Translations of the word "precautionary" in other languages:

🇵🇹 precaucionário

🇮🇳 सावधानीपूर्वक

🇩🇪 vorsorglich

🇮🇩 berjaga-jaga

🇺🇦 обережний

🇵🇱 ostrożnościowy

🇯🇵 予防的 (よぼうてき)

🇫🇷 précautionneux

🇪🇸 precautorio

🇹🇷 ihtiyatlı

🇰🇷 예방의

🇸🇦 احترازي

🇨🇿 preventivní

🇸🇰 preventívny

🇨🇳 预防性的 (yùfáng xìng de)

🇸🇮 previdnostni

🇮🇸 varúð

🇰🇿 сақтық

🇬🇪 სიფრთხილის

🇦🇿 ehtiyatlı

🇲🇽 precautorio

Etymology

The word 'precautionary' originated from the Latin word 'praecautio', meaning 'a precaution'. It first appeared in the mid-17th century in English. The concept of taking precautions or preventive measures has been an essential part of human behavior throughout history, evolving to address various risks and dangers. In modern usage, 'precautionary' is commonly associated with safety protocols, risk management, and preparedness.

See also: precaution.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,074, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.