Precautions Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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precautions
[prɪˈkɔːʃənz ]
Definitions
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?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| precautions |
General term for steps taken to avoid or reduce risks in everyday situations.
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| safety measures |
Steps or actions taken specifically to ensure safety, commonly used in the context of work sites, public spaces, and emergency preparedness.
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| preventive measures |
Specific actions or strategies implemented to prevent a potential problem, especially in health, safety, and environmental contexts.
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| safeguards |
Mechanisms or controls put in place to protect people, property, or information from harm or unauthorized access.
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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.
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?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| precautions |
Used in situations where general actions are taken to avoid potential dangers or problems.
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| preventive measures |
Typically used in formal or technical situations to describe broad strategies aimed at preventing problems or dangers.
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| preventive actions |
Used to describe specific actions taken ahead of time to stop something bad from happening, usually in a detailed or deliberate manner.
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| health measures |
Typically used in contexts related to public health or personal well-being, often recommended by health experts or authorities.
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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
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Health and Safety
- Precautions play a vital role in public health, like wearing masks during a pandemic to prevent disease spread.
- In chemistry labs, safety precautions include wearing goggles and gloves to protect from harmful substances.
- Fire drills in schools are a common precaution to prepare for emergencies and ensure student safety.
Everyday Life
- People often take precautions while traveling, such as checking the weather or keeping important documents safe.
- Using seatbelts in cars is a simple yet effective precaution that significantly reduces the risk of injury in accidents.
- Before cooking, washing hands and checking that food isn't expired are small precautions to prevent foodborne illness.
Psychology
- Precautions can help reduce anxiety by providing a sense of control over situations that could go wrong.
- The precautionary principle in decision-making involves anticipating risks and taking steps to minimize them.
- Making lists of precautions can sometimes help individuals feel more prepared and less overwhelmed.
Technology
- In cybersecurity, precautions involve setting strong passwords and two-factor authentication to protect personal data.
- Software updates often include security precautions to defend against the latest online threats.
- Developers use precautions while coding to avoid bugs and issues that could cause technology to malfunction.
Origin of 'precautions'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin word 'praecautio,' meaning 'foreseeing' or 'forewarning.'
- It is related to the Latin verb 'cautus,' which means 'to be cautious' or 'careful.'
- The term has been used in English since the early 1600s, originally referring to taking care in situations.
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.