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

“The legacy of the inflation surge and price attentiveness continue to weigh on consumption and saving decisions, with a higher saving ratio via precautionary motives being one explanation for the consumption gap,” Mann said.

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There are also signs that underlying inflation pressures are moderating, giving the Fed the space to cut rates as a precautionary measure.

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If you were concerned that weak jobs creation is a sign of trouble ahead, the Fed’s precautionary rate cut made sense.

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Some hospitals were put in "lockdown" as a precautionary measure.

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No apartments were damaged, but as a precautionary measure, some residents have been evacuated.

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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.