cautiously

[ kaw-shuhs-lee ]

adverb

1. in a way that shows alertness and prudence in a hazardous or uncertain situation; carefully; warily:

   He stepped cautiously onto the loose planks.

   I am cautiously optimistic that both parties will accept the compromise.

Other Words From

• hy·per·cau·tious·ly adverb
• ul·tra·cau·tious·ly adverb
• un·cau·tious·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of cautiously¹

First recorded in 1610–20; cautious ( def ) + -ly ( def )

Example Sentences

Erin said her friends support the proposed changes and she hopes the tragic circumstances of her brother’s death will make people drive more cautiously.

From BBC

These drugs have passed the clinical trials needed to be approved for use in the UK and have been cautiously welcomed by those working to tackle obesity.

From BBC

We're cautiously leveraging not just our voices but our stealth.

From Salon

Nazarian said he is “cautiously optimistic” but still waiting for more results.

From Los Angeles Times

Harris Why: Seems like a coin flip to be honest, but I am feeling cautiously optimistic about the Selzer poll.

From Slate

Related Words

• carefully
• slowly