Word
cautiously
Phoneticscau·tious·ly, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈkɔʃəsɫi/
UK/kˈɔːʃəsli/
Adverb of manner
Definition
adv. in a careful way, because you want to avoid danger or mistakes. You use this when you are not sure about something and want to be safe.
adv. in a careful and prudent manner; showing caution to avoid risk or error.
Examples
“She walked cautiously across the icy path.”
“The manager cautiously reviewed the new budget before approving the extra spending.”
“Diplomats cautiously navigated the sensitive negotiations, aware that a single misstep could derail years of progress.”
Examples
simple
“She walked cautiously across the icy path.”
contextual
“The manager cautiously reviewed the new budget before approving the extra spending.”
complex
“Diplomats cautiously navigated the sensitive negotiations, aware that a single misstep could derail years of progress.”
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “cautiously” in context.
Verb
01. cautiously interpret
“Scientists must cautiously interpret the initial results of the study before making any claims.”
adv + verb
02. cautiously optimistic
Usage
Typically placed before the main verb or at the end of the clause.
Etymology
From cautious + -ly.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
ADJECTIVE
ADVERB
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B1 · Intermediate
- Updated
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