precaution
Translation
precaution, safeguard, preventative measure
Examples
He took the precaution of locking his car.
He took the precaution of locking his car.
Safety precautions are important in the lab.
Safety precautions are important in the lab.
As a precaution, the building was evacuated.
As a precaution, the building was evacuated.
Grammar Patterns
((to take)) ((a)) precaution ((against sth.)) to do sth. in advance to prevent problems He took the precaution of locking his car.
((as a)) precaution for preventative reasons As a precaution, the building was evacuated.
Similar Words
Synonyms: safeguard, safety measure, provision
Etymology
From 'pre-' (before) + 'caution'. Literally, 'caution beforehand'.
Memory Tips
Think of it as the 'caution' you take 'pre-' (before) something happens.