precavidos

Precavidos is the Spanish plural noun and adjective used to describe people who act with caution and foresight to avoid harm or risk. As a noun, “los precavidos” refers to such people; as an adjective, “precavido” describes cautious behaviors or attitudes. The term implies planning, risk assessment, and the adoption of preventive measures rather than reacting after events occur. It can denote a personality trait or a temporary state of mind depending on the context.

Etymology and meaning: Precavido derives from precaver, related to taking precautions before an adverse event. Related concepts include precaución (caution), prevención (prevention), and prudencia (prudence). The underlying idea is forethought and the willingness to prepare for possible problems.

Usage and nuance: The word is common in everyday Spanish and in discussions about safety, finance, health, travel, and strategic planning. It generally carries a neutral tone but can carry evaluative nuance based on context, sometimes contrasted with imprudente (reckless) or temerario (rash). Expressions such as más vale precaver que lamentar appear in some varieties of Spanish, highlighting the value of foresight, though the more common proverb is más vale prevenir que lamentar.

See also: Prudencia, Precaución, Prevención, Gestión de riesgos.