Definitions

careful

[kair-fuhl] / ˈkɛər fəl /

ADJECTIVE

cautious; painstaking

Synonyms

STRONGEST

accurate attentive choosy circumspect concerned conscientious deliberate discreet judicious leery meticulous mindful precise prudent rigorous scrupulous sober thorough thoughtful vigilant wary

STRONG

detail-oriented

WEAK

alert apprehensive assiduous chary conservative cool exacting fastidious finicky fussy going to great lengths guarded heedful observant particular playing safe prim protective provident punctilious regardful religious selfdisciplined shy solicitous solid

Antonyms

STRONGEST

careless false foolish heedless idiotic inaccurate inattentive incautious inconsiderate indiscreet inexact irrational lax loose negligent questionable rash reckless thoughtless uncareful uncaring unscrupulous unwise

WEAK

unconcerned

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The researchers hope their work encourages a more careful look at omega-3 supplementation, both in clinical settings and among the general public.

From Science Daily • Apr. 26, 2026

A lifelong animal lover, Kerry also has dogs, cats and a Siamese fighting fish called Gomez - but warned axolotls require careful upkeep.

From BBC • Apr. 26, 2026

Difficult conversations should have “civility and respect, and careful listening.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 24, 2026

Being careful has served you well, but this is the greatest opportunity of your life.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 23, 2026

His manners were really quite excellent, thanks to his governess’s careful training.

From "The Interrupted Tale" by Maryrose Wood

Vocabulary lists containing careful

"Earthquake"

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Cormac McCarthy's "The Road"

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Unit 9

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!