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Synonyms

overcautious

American  
[oh-ver-kaw-shuhs] / ˈoʊ vərˈkɔ ʃəs /

adjective

  1. excessively or unnecessarily cautious.

    Sometimes it doesn't pay to be overcautious in business.


Other Word Forms

Etymology

Origin of overcautious

First recorded in 1700–10; over- + cautious

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 Alan Rusbridger, who sits on Meta's Oversight Board, says the industry has been "overcautious" in its moderation.

From BBC • May 31, 2023

And because our bodies would much rather we be overcautious, our recollections of agony are often exaggerated.

From Washington Post • Apr. 30, 2022

Be overcautious and a perfectly clear day goes to waste; be too bold and put the performers, audience and equipment at risk.

From New York Times • Aug. 4, 2021

The less time you spend being deliberately overcautious and reading online message boards, the better.

From Slate • Aug. 16, 2019

The first two boys to face the varsity players were both overcautious, spareboned, young, and fearful of sudden error and humiliation.

From "The Great Santini" by Pat Conroy

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