Word
conservatively
Phoneticscon·ser·va·tive·ly, stress on the second syllable
US/kənˈsɝvətɪvɫi/
UK/kənsˈɜːvətˌɪvli/
Definition
adv. to be careful and not take unnecessary risks. You use this when you want to be safe and not spend more money or time than you have to.
adv. to act with caution or restraint; to estimate a value with a margin of safety. Often used to describe financial behavior or the calculation of potential outcomes.
Examples
“He conservatively estimates that the repairs will cost five hundred dollars.”
“The company conservatively budgeted for a ten percent increase in fuel costs to avoid any unexpected financial strain.”
“While the initial data suggested a significant rise in sales, the analysts conservatively projected a modest increase to account for the volatile nature of the current market.”
Examples
simple
“He conservatively estimates that the repairs will cost five hundred dollars.”
contextual
“The company conservatively budgeted for a ten percent increase in fuel costs to avoid any unexpected financial strain.”
complex
“While the initial data suggested a significant rise in sales, the analysts conservatively projected a modest increase to account for the volatile nature of the current market.”
Real-World Examples
“Conservatively, a regular beef hot dog is around 150 calories each.” “Leftovers aren't typically taken home, so order conservatively and add more dishes only if needed.” 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.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL 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: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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