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

"As a precautionary measure, international departures have been temporarily suspended, and incoming international flights are being diverted," the statement said, as the fire had affected "network and IT services".

From Barron's

The risk of conflict has caused mounting fear in Iran and spurred other countries to take precautionary measures.

From Barron's

Scottish Water said teams have been working round the clock since the alarm was raised and the local water treatment works was shut down as a precautionary measure.

From BBC

For much of last year, the Fed’s debate centered on whether the labor market was softening and whether precautionary cuts were needed to prevent a sharper slowdown.

From Barron's

For much of last year, the Fed’s debate centered on whether the labor market was softening and whether precautionary cuts were needed to prevent a sharper slowdown.

From Barron's