adjective
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of circumspect
First recorded in 1375–1425; late Middle English, from Latin circumspectus (past participle of circumspicere “to look around”), equivalent to circum- “around, about” ( see circum-) + spec(ere) “to look” + -tus past participle suffix
Explanation
If you are circumspect, you think carefully before doing or saying anything. A good quality in someone entrusted with responsibility, though sometimes boring in a friend. The word circumspect was borrowed from Latin circumspectus, from circumspicere, "to be cautious." The basic meaning of Latin circumspicere is "to look around." Near synonyms are prudent and cautious, though circumspect implies a careful consideration of all circumstances and a desire to avoid mistakes and bad consequences.
Vocabulary lists containing circumspect
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Grade 11, List 2
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
But China's own statements have been circumspect, saying it backs the ceasefire but hardly trumpeting its own diplomacy.
From Barron's • Apr. 10, 2026
Sitting on a boat floating off the shore, Holloway is more circumspect.
From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 19, 2026
Asked about the NYPD’s future under Mayor Mamdani, Mr. Harkins is circumspect.
From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 28, 2025
The security minister Dan Jarvis was both circumspect in his language, but warm and accepting of the wide range of concerns expressed by MPs of multiple parties.
From BBC • Nov. 19, 2025
Instead of laughing, shaking his head, and denying all this, Wilkin, to my surprise, was circumspect.
From "Newjack: Guarding Sing Sing" by Ted Conover
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
