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What does “err on the side of caution” mean?
Meaning, example sentence and a quick practice question.
C1
To choose the safer option when unsure
“When in doubt, err on the side of caution.”
Say it smoothly: “err-on-thuh-side-o'-caution”
From the C1 lesson On the Fence (decision idioms).
Quick check
What does “err on the side of caution” mean?
Teaching this phrase?“err on the side of caution” is part of a ready-to-teach lesson, with a reading, three exercises, speaking tasks and an answer key, in Everyday English Chunks C1 Pack 4 (Communication, Decisions and Habits).
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Related phrases
- sit on the fenceto avoid choosing a side or making a decision
- jump the gunto act too soon, before the right moment
- cross that bridge when you come to itto deal with a problem only when it actually happens, not before
- the lesser of two evilsthe less bad of two unpleasant options
- burn your bridgesto damage a relationship or opportunity so badly it can't be repaired
- have a change of heartto change your mind or feelings about a decision
- think twice about somethingto reconsider something carefully before doing it
- take the road less traveledto choose an unconventional path rather than the usual one
- second-guess yourselfto doubt a decision you've already made