What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
thoughtfully
Example
She thoughtfully brought me a cup of tea when she saw I was upset. [thoughtfully: adverb]
Example
He looked thoughtfully out the window, lost in his own thoughts. [thoughtfully: adverb]
carefully
Example
She carefully placed the vase on the shelf to avoid breaking it. [carefully: adverb]
Example
He read the instructions carefully before assembling the furniture. [carefully: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Carefully is more commonly used than thoughtfully in everyday language. Carefully is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while thoughtfully is less common and often used in specific situations where consideration towards others is emphasized.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between thoughtfully and carefully?
Both thoughtfully and carefully can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, thoughtfully may be perceived as slightly more formal due to its association with empathy and consideration towards others.
