Which Is Better Cautious or Precautious?

Precautious implies action taken before something actually happens. A person being cautious is being careful, especially in general or during a dangerous situation. A person being precautious has anticipated something negative and is doing something to prepare so that it doesn't happen.

Is there such a word as precautious?

precautious, a. (prɪˈkɔːʃəs) [f. precaution: see -ous and cautious.] Using precaution; displaying previous or provident caution or care.

What does it mean to be precautious?

: using precaution : precautionary.

Robert Thorne

Robert Thorne

Automotive & Future Transportation Editor

Robert Thorne covers electric vehicle innovations, autonomous driving systems, global mobility trends, and automotive engineering developments.