Precaution/prɪˈkɔːʃn/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Action Oriented Focuses on specific steps taken to avoid potential problems. As a precaution, they double-checked the ropes before climbing. Pro Tip 2/3Protection Focus Used when safety or security is a primary concern. Installing smoke detectors is an important precaution in any home. Pro Tip 3/3Future Danger Concerns actions to prevent problems that have not yet occurred. The factory took precautions to prevent environmental contamination.