careful Definition
- 1giving attention or thought to what you are doing so that you avoid hurting yourself, damaging something, or doing something wrong
- 2done with great attention to detail
Using careful: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "careful" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Be careful not to slip on the wet floor.
Example
She is a careful driver and always follows the rules.
Example
He gave a careful examination of the evidence before making a decision.
careful Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with careful
Example
Take care when you cross the street.
Example
The package is marked 'handle with care' because it contains fragile items.
used to warn someone that they should think carefully about what they want because they may get it and then regret it
Example
She always wanted to be famous, but now that she is, she realizes that it's not as great as she thought. Be careful what you wish for.
Origins of careful
from Old English 'cǣrful', meaning 'full of care'
Summary: careful in Brief
The term 'careful' [ˈkeəfəl] describes actions taken with attention and thoughtfulness to avoid harm or mistakes. It can also refer to work done with great attention to detail. Examples include 'Be careful not to slip on the wet floor,' and 'He gave a careful examination of the evidence before making a decision.' Phrases like 'take care' and 'handle with care' denote caution and gentleness, while 'be careful what you wish for' warns against hasty desires.