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Definition of cautionary

cautionary

/ˈkɔː.ʃəˌnɛr.i/
cau · tion · ar · y
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cautionary Lexical Profile

cautionary Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Serving as a warning or reminder to avoid a potential danger, error, or mistake.

Example

"The documentary about the failed tech startup serves as a cautionary tale for overly ambitious entrepreneurs."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for cautionary
Antonyms
View all antonyms for cautionary

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse 'cautionary', which means serving as a warning (as in a 'cautionary tale'), with 'cautious', which describes a person or action characterized by careful avoidance of danger.

• Rhymes for cautionary

• Nearby Words

cauterize
cautin
caution
cautionary
cautious
cautiously
cautiousness

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the early 17th century from the noun 'caution' (from Latin 'cautio', meaning 'carefulness' or 'heed', from 'cavere', 'to be on one's guard') plus the adjectival suffix '-ary'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Cautionary. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/cautionary
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