precaution etymology

Etymology

Latin: praecautio, from praecavere "to foresee, guard against" prae- "before" + cavere "to beware"

Meaning and Origin

The word "precaution" comes from the Latin phrase "praecavere," which means "to foresee and guard against." The prefix "prae-" means "before," and the verb "cavere" means "to beware" or "to take precautions." Thus, "praecavere" literally means "to take precautions beforehand."

In English, the word "precaution" has been used since the early 15th century to refer to a measure taken in advance to prevent or mitigate a potential problem or danger. It is typically used in the plural form, "precautions," and can be applied to a wide range of situations, from medical treatments to financial investments.

Examples of Use

• "The doctor ordered the patient to take several precautions to prevent further complications."
• "Investors should take appropriate precautions to protect their assets in a volatile market."
• "The city council implemented new precautions to ensure the safety of residents during the storm."
• "Taking precautions against the flu is especially important for people with weakened immune systems."
• "The company has taken all necessary precautions to minimize the risk of accidents in the workplace."

precaution relate terms

• caution

  Etymology The word caution comes from the Late Latin word cauere meaning to take he

• precautionary

  Etymology The word precautionary comes from the Latin words prae before and cauti

• precaution

  Etymology Latin praecautio from praecavere to foresee guard against prae before

• care

  Etymology From Middle English care from Old English cāru meaning sorrow anxiety g

• guard

  Etymology The word guard comes from the Middle English word garde which in turn com

• blackout

  Etymology The word blackout is a compound word formed from the words black and out

• provision

  Etymology Medieval Latin providere to foresee provide procure Latin providēre

• providence

  Etymology The word providence comes from the Latin word providentia which means fo

• countersign

  Etymology Counter prefix Opposite contrary Sign noun A mark symbol or documen

• credenza

  Etymology The word credenza originates from the Italian word credenza which means b

• race

  Etymology and Meaning of Race The term race has a complex etymological history Indo

• acre

  Etymology The word acre derives from Old English æcer which is cognate with the Pr

• acer

  Etymology The word acer has its origins in the Latin word acer meaning sharp or po