throw caution to the wind
Meaning
To stop being careful and take a risk; act boldly without worrying about consequences.
Origin
From the image of tossing “caution” away so the wind carries it off—i.e., abandoning prudence. The phrasing is recorded from the 19th century and uses wind as a metaphor for irretrievable dismissal.
Notes
Often implies taking a bold leap; can be positive (spontaneous) or negative (reckless) depending on context. Neutral-informal tone.
Examples
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On our last night in the city, we decided to throw caution to the wind and book the most expensive room we could find.
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If you throw caution to the wind with your investments, you might make a quick profit—or lose everything.
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She usually plans every detail, but this time she threw caution to the wind and quit her job to start a bakery.
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The kids threw caution to the wind and jumped into the lake even though the water was freezing.
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He threw caution to the wind and told the truth at the meeting, knowing it could cost him his promotion.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Fixed phrase: usually “throw caution to the wind(s)” (both singular and plural occur). Commonly used with past tense (“threw…”) or as an infinitive (“to throw…”). Often followed by and + verb.
Synonyms
- take a leap of faith
- take a risk
- throw prudence to the wind
- go for broke
Antonyms
- play it safe
- err on the side of caution
- exercise caution