elvigyázatosság

Elvigyázatosság is the Hungarian term for carefulness or caution, though the standard form used in most contexts is elővigyázatosság, meaning precaution or the precautionary principle. The concept denotes a disposition to think ahead, assess potential risks, and adopt preventive measures to avoid harm, especially under conditions of uncertainty.

Etymology and usage notes: the word is built from vigyázatosság (caution, care) with the prefix elő- meaning before or in advance; elvigyázatosság is occasionally found, but elővigyázatosság is the common and accepted form. The term is used in everyday language as well as in formal contexts such as law, policy, and risk management to express prudent conduct and foresighted planning.

Applications and context: in public policy and environmental law, elővigyázatosság is closely linked to the precautionary principle, which advises undertaking protective action when there is plausible risk of severe or irreversible harm, even if full scientific certainty is lacking. In corporate governance and engineering, it underpins risk assessment, safety standards, and conservative decision-making. In medicine and finance, it supports strategies that prioritize patient safety and financial stability when outcomes are uncertain.

See also: vigyázat, elővigyázatosság, precautionary principle, risk assessment, safety culture.

Note: while elvigyázatosság may appear in some texts, the preferred and widely recognized term is elővigyázatosság.