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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak quote

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

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Tread with caution

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'tread with caution' is correct and usable in written English
It is used to caution someone to be careful in their actions. For example: "We must tread with caution when entering the old building, as it may not be structurally sound".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

"For me personally, I tread with caution around the notion of [superhero] characters.

News & Media

Independent

In general, social media experts advise companies to tread with caution when it comes to account ownership.

Tread with caution.

News & Media

TechCrunch

Tread with caution until this clears up.

News & Media

TechCrunch

They have yet to SIM unlock the new baseband (02.30.03), so tread with caution and read directions especially close if you're planning on liberating your handset.

News & Media

TechCrunch

"You have got to tread with caution and if caution means taking a little bit more time than usual we'll take it".

News & Media

BBC
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Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

The BoE will have to continue treading with caution".

Early reports indicate that it seems to be working fine – but as usual, tread with extreme caution, and read before you leap.

News & Media

TechCrunch

Questioned about the comments by Tory MP Tim Yeo, the prime minister said he was surprised by the fuss they had generated and it reminded him that he had to tread with "great caution" when talking about the issue.

News & Media

BBC

Until the adoption of SEC rules to implement the crowdfunding exemption, operators of crowdfunding platforms should tread with extreme caution to ensure compliance with U.S. securities laws.

News & Media

Huffington Post

He must tread with care.

News & Media

Forbes
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Expert writing Tips

✓ Best practice

When using "tread with caution", ensure the context clearly indicates the potential danger or risk that warrants the careful approach. Be specific about what actions require caution.

⚠ Common error

Avoid using "tread with caution" too frequently in your writing. While appropriate in many situations, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms like "proceed carefully" or "exercise prudence" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tread with caution" primarily functions as an advisory expression. It serves to warn or encourage careful and deliberate action, especially in situations that may be dangerous or uncertain. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

✓ Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Wiki

28%

Formal & Business

6%

⚠ Less common in

Science

4%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "tread with caution" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed phrase used to advise careful and deliberate action, particularly when potential risks are involved. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness. Predominantly found in News & Media and Wiki sources, this expression serves to urge vigilance and prudence. When using this phrase, clarity in the specific risk is critical, and alternatives like "proceed carefully" can offer subtle variations in emphasis. Remember to avoid overuse for stylistic reasons. The phrase is a valuable tool for promoting cautious behavior in a variety of contexts.

FAQs

How can I use "tread with caution" in a sentence?

Use "tread with caution" to advise someone to be careful and mindful of potential risks or dangers in a particular situation. For example, "We must "tread with caution" when implementing these new policies."

What does "tread with caution" mean?

"Tread with caution" means to proceed carefully and deliberately, being mindful of potential dangers or negative consequences.

Which is the difference between "proceed with caution" and "tread with caution"?

While both phrases convey a similar meaning, "proceed with caution" is a more general advisory, while "tread with caution" often implies navigating a situation fraught with potential hidden dangers or difficulties. The slight difference is in the imagery; "tread" suggests a careful placement of each footstep.

What are some alternative phrases to "tread with caution"?

Alternatives include "proceed carefully", "be circumspect", or "act prudently", each emphasizing different aspects of careful and considered action.

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Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: