be careful
/biː ˈkeəfʊl/
Meaning
This phrase is used to advise someone to pay attention and avoid danger, mistakes, or causing damage. It is a general, polite warning that can be used in both minor and serious situations.
Examples
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Be careful with that knife, it's very sharp.
Be careful with that knife, it's very sharp.
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Please be careful when you walk down the stairs.
Please be careful when you walk down the stairs.
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Be careful not to spill your juice on the rug.
Be careful not to spill your juice on the rug.
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You should be careful about what you say to him today.
You should be careful about what you say to him today.
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Be careful! The floor is very slippery.
Be careful! The floor is very slippery.
Common Mistakes
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✗ Be careful for the dog.
✓ Be careful of the dog.
Use 'be careful of' or 'be careful with' instead of 'be careful for' when pointing out a specific hazard.
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✗ Do careful!
✓ Be careful!
'Careful' is an adjective, so it must be paired with the verb 'to be', not 'do'.
Related Expressions
Practice
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___ with those glasses; they break easily.
💡 Pay attention not to break them.
Show answer
Be careful
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Please ___ not to wake up the baby.
💡 Do the action quietly and safely.
Show answer
be careful