Careful Meaning

UK /ˈkeəfəl/
US /ˈkɛrfəl/
Word Definition
careful meaning

Careful Definition & Usage

adjective

Showing caution and attention to detail, avoiding mistakes or accidents.

Examples

  • "She was careful when handling the fragile vase."
  • "Be careful while driving on icy roads."
  • "He gave a careful answer to avoid offending anyone."
  • "The scientist was careful in documenting the experiment's results."
  • "After the accident, he became more careful about his health."
adjective

Showing consideration for the feelings or needs of others.

Examples

  • "She was careful not to hurt his feelings with her criticism."
  • "His careful words reassured the anxious child."
  • "A careful approach is needed when discussing sensitive topics."
  • "He was always careful in his interactions with his elderly mother."
  • "The teacher was careful to praise each student's effort."

Cultural Context

The word 'careful' has been used in English since the Middle Ages, evolving from the concept of being full of 'care' or concern. Its uses have grown to include both physical caution and emotional sensitivity.

The Careful Adventurer

Story

The Careful Adventurer

Once upon a time, in a small village nestled between mountains, there lived a young adventurer named Clara. Clara was known for her bravery, but what truly set her apart was her careful nature. Unlike other adventurers who rushed headlong into unknown lands, Clara took her time, considering every step before she moved forward. One day, Clara set out to explore the Dark Woods, a forest known for its mysterious paths and hidden dangers. As she entered the dense forest, she immediately adopted a careful approach, stepping over twisted roots and avoiding the sharp thorns that reached out from the underbrush. She was careful, but not fearful, knowing that caution was the key to survival. As she walked deeper into the forest, Clara encountered a broken bridge over a deep ravine. Without hesitation, she analyzed the situation. With careful precision, she gathered fallen branches and rocks, constructing a sturdy path across. Her careful planning ensured that she made it safely to the other side. Later, Clara met an old hermit living by a quiet stream. The hermit was a wise man, who shared stories of the forest’s past and the creatures that dwelled within. As Clara spoke with him, she was careful with her words, sensing that the hermit preferred quiet reflection over idle chatter. Her careful listening made the conversation meaningful and respectful. That evening, Clara sat by the fire, contemplating her day. She realized that her careful approach had not only kept her safe but had also helped her form deeper connections with the people she met. Her careful nature, often mistaken for hesitation, had been her greatest strength. Clara returned to her village a week later, with stories of her adventures and the valuable lessons she learned. The villagers were amazed at how she had navigated the dangers of the Dark Woods, but Clara simply smiled and said, 'Sometimes, being careful is all you need to find the greatest adventures.'

The Careful Adventurer