Basic Details
Word: Cautious
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Being careful to avoid danger or mistakes.
Synonyms: Careful, watchful, prudent
Antonyms: Reckless, careless, impulsive
Idioms and Phrases
- Better safe than sorry: Its wiser to be careful than to take a risk that could lead to trouble. Example: "She decided to study extra hard for the exam because she believed in the saying 'better safe than sorry.'
- Caution to the wind: To take a risk and ignore dangers. Example: "He threw caution to the wind and dived off the high diving board, despite being scared."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The cautious driver stopped at every stop sign to ensure everyone was safe.
Example 2: When trying new foods, she was always cautious about what she ate because of her allergies.
Example 3: The teacher was cautious in giving feedback, wanting to ensure her students felt supported but also challenged.
Fun Fact
The word "cautious" comes from the Latin word "cautus," which means "aware" or "careful." It has been used in English since the 16th century to describe someone who is wary of potential dangers.
Famous Quote
"The cautious seldom err." - Confucius
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "cautious" mean?
a) Brave and bold
b) Being careful to avoid danger
c) Happy and cheerful
d) Strong and powerful
Answer: b) Being careful to avoid danger
2. Which of these is a synonym of "cautious"?
a) Reckless
b) Careful
c) Careless
d) Impulsive
Answer: b) Careful
3. What is an antonym of "cautious"?
a) Cautious
b) Watchful
c) Reckless
d) Prudent
Answer: c) Reckless
4. Which sentence uses "cautious" correctly?
a) The cautious girl ran across the busy road without looking.
b) He was cautious and looked both ways before crossing the street.
c) She was cautious and jumped into the pool without checking.
d) The cautious dog chased after the car.
Answer: b) He was cautious and looked both ways before crossing the street.
5. Which idiom means the same as being cautious?
a) Caution to the wind
b) All's fair in love and war
c) Better safe than sorry
d) The ball is in your court
Answer: c) Better safe than sorry
