Vorsicht

Vorsicht is a German noun meaning caution, care, or prudence. It is also used as an interjection to warn of danger, roughly equivalent to “watch out” or “caution” in English. In everyday speech, the word signals the need to act carefully to avoid harm.

Etymology and related terms: The term derives from the prefix vor- meaning “before” and Sicht meaning “sight” or “view,” conveying foreseeing danger and preparing to avoid it. It is related to, but distinct from, Voraussicht, which means foresight rather than immediate caution. The adjective form is vorsichtig, and the adverb is vorsichtig as well in compounds and phrases.

Usage and contexts: Vorsicht appears frequently in safety signage, manuals, and public warnings. Examples include phrases like Vorsicht! Glatteis (Caution: icy conditions) or Vorsicht beim Öffnen der Tür (Be careful when opening the door). In legal or workplace language, it forms compounds such as Vorsichtsmaßnahmen (precautionary measures) and Vorsichtsmaßnahme. The term is a core element of risk communication and safety culture in German-speaking environments.

See also: The concept connects to related terms such as Achtsamkeit (mindfulness) and Vorsorge (precaution or preparedness). While Vorsicht emphasizes immediate caution in a situation, foresight and preventive planning extend its broader safety framework.