Here's why:
* Temerity means reckless boldness or rashness. It implies a lack of caution and consideration for the consequences.
* Prudence means acting with care and good judgment. It emphasizes careful planning and foresight.
Other words that could be considered opposites of temerity include:
* Caution
* Discretion
* Circumspection
* Hesitation
* Timidity (though this implies fearfulness, which is a different concept)