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Glite Dictionary
precautional

precautional

8.6
Done in advance to prevent harm
  • adjective
  • /prɪˈkɔːʃənl/
  • Formal
translation icon : preventivo
  • Before the storm arrived, the city took precautional actions to protect residents.

Examples

  • Researchers recommended a precautional approach when handling hazardous chemicals.

  • The team took precautional steps before the event.

  • Before the storm arrived, the city took precautional actions to protect residents.

  • The company implemented several precautional measures to avoid data breaches.

  • We implemented precautional measures to ensure safety.

  • Researchers recommended a precautional approach when handling hazardous chemicals.

  • The company implemented several precautional measures to avoid data breaches.

Synonyms

preemptive
vsprecautional
  • US
48 7.0

Acting before a problem to stop it from happening

is broader, covering any advance action to prevent danger rather than only forestalling
preventative
vsprecautional
26 4.1

Made to stop bad things like disease or harm

is similar but more formal and not limited to health contexts
precautionary
vsprecautional
22 5.0

Done to stop possible harm before it happens

is the formal label for such advance protective acts
prophylactic
vsprecautional
  • Specialized
4 7.5

Used to prevent infection or disease

is broader, covering any precautionary measure beyond medical prevention
pre-emptive
vsprecautional
6.7

Taking action before a problem to stop it from happening

is the general preventive stance rather than specifically deterring an event
preemptory
vsprecautional
8.0

Acting early to stop something bad from happening

focuses on general prevention of harm rather than on blocking others' moves
preactive
vsprecautional
7.7

Acting before a problem or event happens to avoid it

is about taking protective steps in advance rather than general planning

Antonyms

reckless
193 3.6

Acting without care about danger or the results

careless
14 1.0

A lack of attention that causes mistakes or harm

How Precautionary

overcautious
3 6.1
preventive
57 3.8
precautional
  • Formal
8.6
cautious
210 2.9
careless
14 1.0
reckless
193 3.6

Surface Forms

precautional positive

Morphology

precautional = precaution (semi-transparent) = pre + caution + al

The adjective is formed regularly from the noun 'precaution' with the common adjectival suffix '-al'.

Etymology

Precautional comes from pre- 'before' and the same root as caution, which meant 'be careful'. So a precautional action is something you do before a problem to prevent harm.