careful
- 1Paying close attention so you do not get hurt or make a mistake.
Like walking slowly on icy ground so you do not fall.
Be careful when you cross the busy street.
She is always careful with sharp knives in the kitchen.
UsageSay careful with something, or careful not to do something: be careful not to fall.
Similarcautious, wary, guarded, prudent
Oppositecareless, reckless, rash
Note
- 2Doing something with great attention so that every detail is right.
The careful student checked her homework twice before handing it in.
He was careful to spell every name correctly in the report.
Similarmeticulous, painstaking, thorough, conscientious, diligent
Oppositecareless, sloppy, slapdash
Note
- 3Not wasting money and spending it only when you need to, sometimes so much that you seem cheap.
My grandpa is very careful with money and always waits for a sale.
She was careful with her pay all year, so she had enough saved for a used car.
UsageUsually careful with money. Calling someone careful can be a kind way to say they hate spending.
Similarthrifty, frugal, economical
Oppositeextravagant, wasteful
Less common meanings
- 4Full of worry, with many troubles on your mind.
Where through long watch, and late daies weary toile, / She soundly slept, and carefull thoughts did quite assoile.
1590, Edmund Spenser, The Faerie QueeneHere, carefull means full of worry and troubles.Note
- 5Feeling very sad, with a heart full of grief.
Note
Practice
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Origin
From an Old English word, made from "care" plus "-ful".
Checked 6 Nov 2026 · 2 facts
- Careful derives from an Old English word. en.wiktionary.org
- Its formation corresponds to care plus -ful. en.wiktionary.org