Cautious synonym,synonyms of cautious

Similarities: Both "cautious" and "careful" imply a high degree of attention and prudence in one's actions or decisions. When you are cautious or careful, you are taking steps to avoid mistakes, risks, or unwanted outcomes. For example, you can be cautious/careful when crossing the street, meaning you are watching out for cars and other hazards.
Differences: "Careful" often emphasizes the act of paying close attention to details and being meticulous in performing a task. It can be used in a wider range of situations and is more focused on the quality of one's actions. You might be careful when painting a picture, making sure every brushstroke is precise. "Cautious" has a stronger connotation of being wary of potential risks or dangers and taking steps to avoid them. It's more about a general state of being on guard.

Similarities: "Prudent" and "cautious" both involve making wise and sensible decisions based on an awareness of potential consequences. A prudent person and a cautious person alike will think carefully before acting and consider the long-term effects of their choices. For instance, a prudent/cautious investor will research thoroughly before putting money into a new venture.
Differences: "Prudent" often implies a higher level of wisdom and foresight in decision-making. It's associated with making choices that are not only safe but also economically, socially, or morally sound. "Cautious" can be more about reacting to immediate or specific threats or uncertainties. Prudence is more about a general approach to life and decision-making that is based on sound judgment and planning.

Similarities: "Discreet" and "cautious" share the idea of being careful not to cause problems or draw unwanted attention. When you are discreet or cautious, you are acting in a way that is unobtrusive and mindful of the situation. For example, you might be discreet/cautious when discussing sensitive information, not revealing more than necessary.
Differences: "Discreet" mainly focuses on being tactful and unobtrusive in communication and behavior, especially in situations where privacy or sensitivity is involved. It's about handling information or situations in a way that respects the context and the people involved. "Cautious" is more about being careful in general actions and decisions to avoid risks or negative outcomes. You can be cautious in a physical sense, like being cautious when climbing a ladder, which has less to do with discretion.

Similarities: Both "vigilant" and "cautious" involve being watchful and alert. A vigilant person and a cautious person are both on the lookout for potential problems or changes in the situation. For example, a security guard needs to be vigilant/cautious to detect any signs of trouble.
Differences: "Vigilant" emphasizes the act of being constantly watchful and alert, often in the context of protecting against threats or dangers. It implies a more active state of monitoring and being ready to respond quickly. "Cautious" is more about the overall approach to actions and decisions, being careful and not taking unnecessary risks. You can be cautious in your daily activities without necessarily being in a state of constant vigilance like a security guard.

Similarities: "Chary" and "cautious" both convey a sense of being hesitant or reluctant to take risks. If you are chary or cautious about something, you are not eager to jump into it without careful consideration. For example, you might be chary/cautious about trying a new and untested product.
Differences: "Chary" often has a stronger sense of being suspicious or distrustful, which leads to caution. It implies a certain wariness or skepticism towards something. "Cautious" can be more about a general sense of prudence and not wanting to make hasty decisions, without necessarily having the element of suspicion. "Chary" is a bit more old-fashioned and less commonly used in everyday language compared to "cautious".