Care vs Caution
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
| Care | Caution | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | to feel interest or concern about something or someone | Be careful. |
| CEFR level | A2 | C1 |
| Part of speech | noun | noun |
| Usage notes | Use 'care' to express concern or affection. It's suitable in most contexts but may sound too emotional in very formal situations. | Use 'caution' when advising someone to be careful. It is appropriate in both spoken and written contexts, but can sound slightly formal in casual conversations. |
Frequently asked questions: Care vs Caution
What's the difference between "Care" and "Caution"?
"Care" means: to feel interest or concern about something or someone "Caution" means: Be careful.
When should I use "Care" and "Caution"?
They can all be used in everyday English.
Are "Care" and "Caution" the same CEFR level?
"Care" is at A2, "Caution" is at C1 on the CEFR scale.