Circumspection
noun /ˌsɜː.kəmˈspek.ʃən/ — Careful consideration of all circumstances before acting
Definition
The quality of being wary and unwilling to take risks — considering all consequences carefully before acting, looking in all directions before proceeding.
Beyond the definition
The discipline of the pause. Circumspection is what happens when wisdom has learned to slow down.
Origin & history
From Latin 'circumspicere' — 'circum' (around) + 'specere' (to look). To look around in all directions before moving.
Example sentences
Illustrative sentences for learning, not verified community posts or sourced quotations.
Her circumspection in the negotiation was taken for hesitation by those who didn't know her.
Circumspection is often mistaken for timidity by people who confuse speed with competence.
He approached the situation with circumspection — no decision until he had seen it from every angle.
How to use it
This entry uses a noun. Follow the examples for articles and singular or plural forms; not every noun takes “a” or “an.”
Choose “Circumspection” when the meaning fits your context: The quality of being wary and unwilling to take risks — considering all consequences carefully before acting, looking in all directions before proceeding.
Synonyms
caution, prudence, wariness, deliberateness, care
Antonyms
rashness, impulsiveness, recklessness
Related words
Questions about this word
What does "Circumspection" mean?
Circumspection is noun meaning: Careful consideration of all circumstances before acting. The quality of being wary and unwilling to take risks — considering all consequences carefully before acting, looking in all directions before proceeding.
Where does the word "Circumspection" come from?
From Latin 'circumspicere' — 'circum' (around) + 'specere' (to look). To look around in all directions before moving.