adj.
Pronunciation: ' ko ̇ -sh ə s
Function: adjective
Date: 1614
: marked by or given to caution < cautious investors> < cautious optimism>
– cau · tious · ly adverb
– cau · tious · ness noun
synonyms CAUTIOUS , CIRCUMSPECT , WARY , CHARY mean prudently watchful and discreet in the face of danger or risk. CAUTIOUS implies the exercise of forethought usually prompted by fear of danger <a cautious driver>. CIRCUMSPECT suggests less fear and stresses the surveying of all possible consequences before acting or deciding < circumspect in his business dealings>. WARY emphasizes suspiciousness and alertness in watching for danger and cunning in escaping it <keeps a wary eye on the competition>. CHARY implies a cautious reluctance to give, act, or speak freely < chary of signing papers without having read them first>.