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on the safe side

Idioms  
  1. Avoiding danger, with a margin for error, as in Just to be on the safe side, let's order another hundred chairs. This idiom was first recorded in 1811.


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.

See Examples For:

However, he was quick to point out that he popped the question "on the safe side of the beach".

From BBC ● Oct. 30, 2026

An index fund, most likely, or a series of them — running from tech-heavy funds through various sectors, down to Treasury bond funds or CDs on the safe side.

From MarketWatch ● Jul. 31, 2026

"Businesses would therefore reduce their overall hiring to be on the safe side of things, until they see data that really points towards increased demand, or at least stabilization in the economy," he told AFP.

From Barron's ● Oct. 30, 2025

So to be on the safe side, it would be advisable to avoid raw milk products.

From Salon ● Jun. 5, 2024

Just to be on the safe side, keep this in mind for the future: If you think Jeffrey is looking at all yellow, in his skin tone or around the eyes, bring him in immediately.

From "Drums, Girls, and Dangerous Pie" by Jordan Sonnenblick

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