3

Collins dictionary says:

If you are wary of something or someone, you are cautious because you do not know much about them and you believe they may be dangerous or cause problems.

I found some examples in dictionaries.

  1. Brands need to be cautious about which environment they place themselves in.

  2. They were very wary about giving him a contract

What would be the difference between wary (of/about) and cautious (about)?

1 Answer 1

4

An interesting question. The two words are synonymous for the most part. However, wary has a bit more of an emotional component in it, a feeling of reluctance to do whatever one might be wary about doing. Cautious is more of a carefulness based on reason.

From the Merriam-Webster definition of cautious (the synonym discussion halfway down the page):

Cautious implies the exercise of forethought usually prompted by fear of danger. ⟨a cautious driver⟩ ... wary emphasizes suspiciousness and alertness in watching for danger and cunning in escaping it.

You must log in to answer this question.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged .