precautionary

Sometimes pre·cau·tion·al

[pri-kaw-shuh-ner-ee]

adjective

1. of, relating to, or characterized by precaution.

   precautionary measures.

2. expressing or advising precaution.

   precautionary warnings against possible tornadoes.

Word History and Origins

Origin of precautionary¹

First recorded in 1740–50; precaution + -ary

Example Sentences

An image of the bracelet has been circulated to all Egyptian airports, seaports and land border crossings as a "precautionary step to prevent smuggling attempts", the ministry added.

From BBC

"While we do not cast aspersions upon individuals, given the nature of Jeffrey Epstein's appalling crimes, we believe the university's leadership should, as a precautionary measure, be suspending its links with known associates of Epstein."

From BBC

The IDF said precautionary measures had been taken, "including advance warnings to the population" and the use of "precise munitions".

From BBC

It said precautionary measures had been taken to mitigate harm to civilians, "including advance warnings to the population" and the use of "precise munitions".

From BBC

Thames Water's attempt to secure its future continues to hang in the balance as the government takes the precautionary step of lining up administrators.

From BBC

When To Use

What does precautionary mean?

Precautionary is used to describe actions taken in advance to prevent something negative from happening or to lessen the impact of the negative thing if it does happen.Such actions are called precautions. This sense of precautionary is most commonly seen in the phrase precautionary measures, which is essentially a synonym for precautions.Precaution can also be used as a verb meaning to warn, and precautionary can also mean expressing a warning, as in Police have posted a precautionary message advising all residents to stay indoors due to the chemical spill. Example: Officials said they have taken several precautionary measures to secure the city in advance of the storm.