circumspection

Definitions

The quality of being wary and unwilling to take risks; prudence.

Careful consideration of all circumstances and potential consequences before acting.

Examples

The detective approached the crime scene with great circumspection, careful not to disturb any potential evidence.

Given the volatility of the stock market, the investor decided to act with circumspection before committing his entire savings.

Synonyms

caution prudence carefulness discretion vigilance wariness deliberation

Antonyms

recklessness impulsiveness carelessness rashness imprudence audacity heedlessness