careful
word · lemma: care
/ˈkɛɹfəɫ/
KAIR-fuhl
/kˈeəfəl/
KAIR-fuhl
Definition
Being attentive and trying to avoid mistakes, harm, or danger; thinking about what you do to prevent problems.
Usage & Nuances
'Careful' is usually positive and refers to attention, not fear. Common collocations: 'be careful' (warning/advice), 'a careful plan', 'careful driver.' Do not confuse with 'caring' (empathetic) or 'cautious' (stronger sense of avoiding risk).
Spanish: cuidadoso - precavidoPortuguese (BR): cuidadoso - cautelosoPortuguese (PT): cuidadoso - cautelosoChinese (Simplified): 小心的 - 仔细的Chinese (Traditional): 小心的 - 仔細的Hindi: सावधान - ध्यानपूर्वकArabic: حذر - مُنتبهBengali: সতর্ক - সাবধানRussian: осторожный - внимательныйJapanese: 注意深い - 用心深いVietnamese: cẩn thậnKorean: 조심스러운 - 신중한Turkish: dikkatli - özenliUrdu: محتاط - خبردارIndonesian: hati-hati - cermat
Example Sentences
Be careful not to spill your drink.
basic
Please be careful when you cross the street.
basic
She is very careful with her money.
basic
He's always careful about what he says at work.
natural
You have to be extra careful driving in the rain.
natural
If you're not careful, you might forget your keys.
natural