mindmap root((谨慎)) cautious implies the exercise of forethought or prudence usually prompted by fear of danger: a ~ driver. circumspect stresses prudence, discretion, vigilance, and the surveying of all possible consequences before acting or deciding: the panel must be ~ in assigning blame. wary emphasizes suspiciousness and alertness in watching for danger and cunning in escaping it: be ~ of those claiming to have all the answers. chary implies a cautious reluctance to give, act, or speak freely: I am ~ of signing papers I have not read.