precaution

views updated Jun 11 2018

pre·cau·tion / priˈkôshən/ • n. a measure taken in advance to prevent something dangerous, unpleasant, or inconvenient from happening: he had taken the precaution of seeking legal advice.DERIVATIVES: pre·cau·tion·ar·y / -ˌnerē/ adj.

precaution

views updated May 17 2018

precaution XVII. — F. précaution — late L. præcautiō, -ōn-, f. L. præcaut-, pp. stem of præcavēre be on one's guard; see PRE-, CAUTION.

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