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Precautions: meaning, definitions and examples

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precautions

 

[ prɪˈkɔːʃənz ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

safety measures

Precautions are actions that are taken in advance to prevent something dangerous or unpleasant from happening.

Synonyms

preventive measures, safeguards, safety measures.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
precautions

General term for steps taken to avoid or reduce risks in everyday situations.

  • Taking basic precautions like locking your doors can greatly reduce the risk of burglary.
  • Make sure to follow all precautions listed on the medication.
safety measures

Steps or actions taken specifically to ensure safety, commonly used in the context of work sites, public spaces, and emergency preparedness.

  • Construction workers must always wear helmets and harnesses as part of standard safety measures.
  • The school has implemented various safety measures to prepare for emergencies.
preventive measures

Specific actions or strategies implemented to prevent a potential problem, especially in health, safety, and environmental contexts.

  • Vaccination is one of the most effective preventive measures against infectious diseases.
  • Implementing proper waste management practices are essential preventive measures to protect the environment.
safeguards

Mechanisms or controls put in place to protect people, property, or information from harm or unauthorized access.

  • Installing a password on your phone serves as a safeguard against data theft.
  • The company implemented several safeguards to ensure the security of their network.

Examples of usage

  • Make sure to take all necessary precautions before starting the experiment.
  • It is important to follow safety precautions when handling hazardous materials.
Context #2 | Noun

health

Precautions can also refer to measures taken to avoid catching or spreading diseases.

Synonyms

health measures, preventive actions, preventive measures.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
precautions

Used in situations where general actions are taken to avoid potential dangers or problems.

  • She took extra precautions when traveling alone
  • Precautions were implemented to ensure the safety of the event
preventive measures

Typically used in formal or technical situations to describe broad strategies aimed at preventing problems or dangers.

  • The government introduced preventive measures to control the spread of disease
  • Preventive measures in construction include regular inspections and safety training
preventive actions

Used to describe specific actions taken ahead of time to stop something bad from happening, usually in a detailed or deliberate manner.

  • The company took preventive actions by upgrading its cybersecurity systems
  • Preventive actions in case of fire include regular drills and proper equipment
health measures

Typically used in contexts related to public health or personal well-being, often recommended by health experts or authorities.

  • Health measures like wearing masks and social distancing were enforced during the pandemic
  • Regular health measures include washing hands and eating balanced meals

Examples of usage

  • Wearing a mask and washing hands regularly are important precautions during flu season.
  • The hospital staff followed strict precautions to prevent the spread of infection.

Translations

Translations of the word "precautions" in other languages:

🇵🇹 precauções

🇮🇳 सावधानियाँ

🇩🇪 Vorsichtsmaßnahmen

🇮🇩 tindakan pencegahan

🇺🇦 запобіжні заходи

🇵🇱 środki ostrożności

🇯🇵 予防措置

🇫🇷 précautions

🇪🇸 precauciones

🇹🇷 önlemler

🇰🇷 예방 조치

🇸🇦 احتياطات

🇨🇿 preventivní opatření

🇸🇰 preventívne opatrenia

🇨🇳 预防措施

🇸🇮 previdnostni ukrepi

🇮🇸 varúðarráðstafanir

🇰🇿 сақтық шаралары

🇬🇪 სიფრთხილის ზომები

🇦🇿 ehtiyat tədbirləri

🇲🇽 precauciones

Etymology

The word 'precautions' originated from the Latin word 'praecautio', which means a precaution or guarding against. The concept of taking precautions has been present throughout history, as people have always sought to protect themselves from harm or danger. Precautions play a crucial role in various aspects of life, from safety in the workplace to health measures during pandemics. By being proactive and taking precautions, individuals can minimize risks and ensure their well-being.

See also: cautiously, hypercautious, incautiously, overcautious, ultracautious.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,887 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.