precautionary

American  

[pri-kaw-shuh-ner-ee] / prɪˈkɔ ʃəˌnɛr i /

Sometimes precautional

adjective

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

   precautionary measures.

2. expressing or advising precaution.

   precautionary warnings against possible tornadoes.

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Usage

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.

Etymology

Origin of precautionary

First recorded in 1740–50; precaution + -ary

Example Sentences

She has said that the government should take a "precautionary principle" approach, where the use of a chemical is stopped if the potential harm could outweigh the benefits - considering the emerging risks of some PFAS.

From BBC

"This advice is intended to help EU risk managers determine when products should be withdrawn from the market as a precautionary public health measure," it added.

From Barron's

The detection led to the precautionary recall of all products in contact with the production line where cereulide had been detected.

From Barron's

The logic is clear: If the state covers more healthcare and pension costs, households will feel safe enough to stop their “precautionary saving” and start spending again.

From MarketWatch

Karen believes it was a precautionary measure because doctors in Glasgow were so worried he would pick up an infection inside their hospital.

From BBC