What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
careful
Example
Be careful when crossing the street. [careful: adjective]
Example
She carefully wrapped the fragile vase in bubble wrap. [carefully: adverb]
wary
Example
He was wary of strangers approaching him on the street. [wary: adjective]
Example
She watched him with a wary eye, unsure of his intentions. [wary: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Careful is more commonly used than wary in everyday language. Careful is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while wary is less common and often used in specific situations where caution or suspicion is warranted.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between careful and wary?
Both careful and wary can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, careful is generally considered more neutral and can be used in a wider range of formality levels, while wary may lean towards a slightly more informal tone due to its negative connotation.
