precaution
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precaution
A measure taken in advance in order to be prepared for a future event or to prevent unwanted consequences. It is very often used in the plural ('Vorkehrungen treffen' — to take precautions).
Für die lange Reise haben wir alle notwendigen Vorkehrungen getroffen.
For the long trip, we took all the necessary precautions.
'Vorkehrung' is most commonly used in the fixed expression 'Vorkehrungen treffen' (to take precautions). It means to prepare for something or to take measures.
Wir müssen Vorkehrungen für den Fall eines Stromausfalls treffen.
We need to take precautions in case of a power outage.
The prefix 'vor-' means 'before' or 'in advance'. A 'Vorkehrung' (precaution) is therefore an action carried out before an event.
Die rechtzeitige Buchung der Tickets war eine gute Vorkehrung.
Booking the tickets in good time was a good precaution.
Although the singular form exists, this noun is usually used in the plural ('Vorkehrungen' — precautions). People rarely speak of just one single precaution.
Welche Vorkehrungen habt ihr für eure Weltreise getroffen?
What precautions have you taken for your trip around the world?
A very common compound word is 'Sicherheitsvorkehrungen' (safety precautions). This refers to measures taken to ensure safety and avoid dangers.
Am Flughafen gibt es strenge Sicherheitsvorkehrungen.
There are strict safety precautions at the airport.
preparation
'die Vorbereitung' and 'die Vorkehrung' both have to do with actions taken before a future event. 'Vorbereitung' is the more general word: you get yourself ready or organize something. 'Vorkehrung' more often means a specific measure, often so that nothing bad happens or so that you are prepared for a situation. People very often say 'Vorkehrungen treffen' (to take precautions). The words can be confused because both sound like planning in advance. 'Vorbereitung' fits for studying, planning, and organizing. 'Vorkehrung' fits more for protection, safety, or problems you want to avoid.
Wegen des Sturms treffen die Bewohner wichtige Vorkehrungen.
Because of the storm, the residents are taking important precautions.
Vor dem Umzug nimmt sich Mehmet viel Zeit für die Vorbereitung.
Before the move, Mehmet takes a lot of time for preparation.