# guarded

/ˈɡɑɹdəd/ (US) · /ɡˈɑːdɪd/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/guarded
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. cautious or restrained

adjective · CEFR B2

careful about what you say or do because you do not want to give too much information or make a mistake.

For teachers: characterised by caution or restraint, particularly in communication or emotional expression.

- The manager gave a guarded response when asked about the company's future plans.
- The diplomat offered a guarded assessment of the peace talks, careful not to raise public expectations before a formal agreement was signed.

### 2. protected or watched

adjective · CEFR B1

kept safe by a person, a dog, or a physical barrier like a fence.

For teachers: monitored or protected by a guard, sentry, or security apparatus.

- The entrance to the palace is guarded by soldiers in traditional uniforms.
- The facility is a heavily guarded compound, featuring multiple layers of electronic surveillance and armed patrols around the perimeter.

### 3. medical prognosis

adjective · CEFR C1 · Technical

used by doctors to say they are not sure if a patient will get better yet.

For teachers: used in a medical context to describe a prognosis that is uncertain and potentially serious.

- The doctor said the patient's condition was stable, but the prognosis remained guarded.
- Following the complex surgery, the lead clinician issued a guarded prognosis, noting that the next forty-eight hours would be critical for recovery.

Usage: Almost always used in the phrase 'a guarded prognosis'.

## Examples

- He gave a guarded answer to the reporter's personal question.
- The doctor was guarded about the patient's recovery, noting that the next twenty-four hours would be critical.
- Despite the initial success of the peace talks, both delegations remained guarded, fearing that any premature celebration might undermine the delicate trust they had built.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.