caution

About 10.70 uses per million words.

Meaning

1. noun Prudence when faced with, or when expecting to face, danger; care taken in order to avoid risk or harm.

   take caution

2. noun A careful attention to the probable effects of an act, in order that failure or harm may be avoided.

   The guideline expressed caution against excessive radiographic imaging.

3. noun Security; guaranty; bail.
4. noun One who draws attention or causes astonishment by their behaviour.

   Oh, that boy, he's a caution! He does make me laugh.

5. noun A formal warning given as an alternative to prosecution in minor cases.
6. noun A yellow card.
7. verb To warn; to alert, advise that caution is warranted.
8. verb To read someone their formal legal rights as part of a lawful arrest.

Similar words

precaution cautiousness circumspection carefulness caveat forethought admonish care careful beware

Often followed by

in and is to should must that against of

Word family

cautionary cautioned cautioning cautions