careful

The word “careful” means paying close attention to avoid mistakes, danger, or harm. In plain terms, taking pains to avoid errors or danger, or done with real attention to detail.

“Careful” is pronounced KAIRFL (/ˈkɛɹfəl/ in IPA).

Here is “careful” used in a sentence: “Be careful crossing that busy road.”

Words with a similar meaning to “careful” include deliberate.

The opposite of “careful” — its antonyms — is careless.

“Careful” is an adjective.

The word “careful” comes from Old English. From Old English carful, from care + -ful ("full of").

“Careful” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.

Being careful means paying close attention so you avoid mistakes or harm while doing something. Being cautious means holding back because you sense possible risk. A careful driver checks mirrors and signals; a cautious driver slows down or avoids the road altogether. Careful is about attention; cautious is about wariness.

The most direct opposite is 'careless,' meaning not paying attention and so likely to cause mistakes or harm. Other opposites include 'reckless,' 'negligent,' and 'hasty.' Each describes acting without the thought, caution, and attention to detail that being careful requires, often leading to avoidable errors or accidents.

Yes, careful is generally positive. It praises someone for being attentive, thorough, and responsible enough to avoid errors or danger. Occasionally it can hint at being overly cautious or slow, but in most contexts calling someone careful is a compliment about their diligence and good judgement.

Reading a contract slowly before signing it is being careful, because you check every detail to avoid a costly mistake. So is handling a hot pan with oven gloves, or crossing a busy road only after looking both ways. Each shows attention paid to avoid harm or error.