Verb
err on the side of caution (third-person singular simple present errs on the side of caution, present participle erring on the side of caution, simple past and past participle erred on the side of caution)
(idiomatic) To act in the least risky manner in a situation in which one is uncertain about the consequences.
I am not complaining, mind you,” the simurgh was saying in a grumpy, peevish tone of voice a while later, "I was merely pointing out that when one must tamper with the forces of nature, it is better to err on the side of caution and of prudence, than to be too liberal. Lin Carter
Be more than careful,” he told her. "Be totally paranoid. Err on the side of caution. Lis Wiehl
When I tell my colleagues that I remember 1969, 1974 and 1987, their eyes glaze over, but I'm afraid I do remember them, and I therefore err on the side of caution. Johann Rupert
If you are going to a destination where the food might be more exotic than usual, always err on the side of caution. Stefanie Powers
I think all that has to be vetted in a way that errs on the side of protecting the American people. If there's a chance that someone may be inclined to be an enemy of the country, then I think you have to err on the side of caution. Ron DeSantis