The antonym for impetuous requires defining the term. "Impetuous" describes acting rapidly and without deliberation, indicative of impulsivity and potentially leading to rash judgments. Consider the provided choices:
- Cautious: Characterized by carefulness and risk aversion, involving forethought before action; this is the direct opposite of impetuous.
- Reckless: Signifies acting without regard for consequences, mirroring the essence of impetuous.
- Hasty: Denotes swift action, often without sufficient consideration, aligning with impetuous behavior.
- Heedless: Implies a negligent disregard for consequences or attention, also consistent with impetuous actions.
Consequently, the word opposite in meaning to impetuous is cautious.