precautionary measure
Loading your saved state.
precautionary measure
An action or arrangement taken in advance to prevent or minimize a possible risk, danger, or harm.
Als Vorsichtsmaßnahme wurde das Gebäude evakuiert, nachdem der Feueralarm losging.
As a precautionary measure, the building was evacuated after the fire alarm went off.
The word is composed of 'Vorsicht' (caution) and 'Maßnahme' (measure). Literally, it is a measure taken out of caution in order to prevent a problem.
Das Tragen eines Helms beim Radfahren ist eine wichtige Vorsichtsmaßnahme.
Wearing a helmet when cycling is an important precautionary measure.
The most common verbs used with this noun are 'treffen' (to take) and 'ergreifen' (to take/adopt). Both mean that you carry out the measure.
Die Regierung hat strenge Vorsichtsmaßnahmen gegen die Ausbreitung des Virus getroffen.
The government has taken strict precautionary measures against the spread of the virus.
The purpose of a precautionary measure is often expressed with the preposition 'gegen' (+ accusative) or with a purpose clause using 'um ... zu' (in order to).
Wir haben als Vorsichtsmaßnahme gegen Einbrüche eine Alarmanlage installiert.
As a precautionary measure against break-ins, we installed an alarm system.
prevention
'Prävention' and 'Vorsichtsmassnahme' both have to do with preventing risks or harm. 'Prävention' tends to mean a whole area or a planned system of measures, for example in health, accidents, or crime. A 'Vorsichtsmassnahme' is usually a single concrete action or rule taken for safety reasons. Learners may confuse the words because both are meant to protect against danger. In practical terms: 'Prävention' sounds more general and often more official, while 'Vorsichtsmassnahme' fits better in a specific situation.
Der Mitarbeiter trägt im Labor eine Schutzbrille als Vorsichtsmassnahme.
The employee wears safety goggles in the laboratory as a precautionary measure.
In der Schule gibt es ein Projekt zur Prävention von Gewalt.
At the school, there is a project for the prevention of violence.