Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

tread carefully

idiom

/trɛd ˈkɛr.fəl.i/

Definition

To proceed cautiously or with great care, especially when dealing with sensitive situations.

Examples

When discussing money matters with friends, it’s best to tread carefully to avoid misunderstandings.
In negotiations, you should always tread carefully to maintain a good relationship with the other party.
She decided to tread carefully around her boss’s sensitive topic during the meeting.

Meaning

The phrase means being attentive to one’s actions and the potential consequences they may cause, often used in contexts that require diplomacy or prudence.