cautela
“cautela” means “caution” in Spanish (acting with care to avoid danger).
caution
Also: wariness, stealth
📝 In Action
Debes actuar con cautela en esta situación.
B1You must act with caution in this situation.
El gato se acercó al pájaro con mucha cautela.
B2The cat approached the bird with great stealth.
Los inversores muestran cautela ante la caída de la bolsa.
C1Investors are showing wariness regarding the stock market crash.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: cautela
Question 1 of 3
Which of these means 'to act with caution'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'cautela,' which comes from 'cautus,' meaning 'to be on one's guard' or 'wary.'
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use 'cautela' for 'be careful' in an emergency?
No. If you want to yell 'Watch out!' or 'Be careful!', use '¡Cuidado!'. 'Cautela' is a noun used to describe a behavior, not an urgent command.
What is the difference between 'cautela' and 'precaución'?
They are very similar. 'Precaución' is often used for physical safety (like a road sign), while 'cautela' often implies being guarded, suspicious, or moving very quietly.
How do you say 'cautiously' using this word?
The most natural way is to say 'con cautela'.