A2adverb 1K

Carefully

🇬🇧 UK /["/ˈkeəfəli/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ˈkerfəli/"]/

Meaning of Carefully

with a lot of attention or thought, so that you avoid hurting yourself, damaging something or doing something wrong

In simple words: Doing something with a lot of attention and caution.

Carefully in a sentence

• She carefully placed the fragile vase on the shelf.
• He studied the instructions carefully before assembling the furniture.
• Make sure to drive carefully in the rain.
• The artist carefully mixed the colors to achieve the right shade.
• Please read the labels carefully to avoid any allergic reactions.
• She carefully thought through her options before making a decision.
• He handled the documents carefully to prevent any damage.

How to use Carefully

Use 'carefully' to indicate that an action is done with thought and attention. It’s appropriate in both spoken and written English, especially when emphasizing caution. Avoid in very casual conversations where simpler words are preferred.

Grammar pattern

carefully + verb

Memory hint

Think of 'care' in 'carefully'—imagine treating something you care about with extra attention.

Related words

Collocations with Carefully

• handle carefully
• read carefully
• look carefully
• choose carefully
• plan carefully

Synonyms for Carefully

• cautiously
• meticulously
• diligently
• attentively
• safely

Opposites of Carefully

• carelessly
• recklessly

Common mistakes with Carefully

• Using 'careful' instead of 'carefully' as an adverb.
• Misplacing it in a sentence, making it confusing.
• Difficulties in pronouncing it correctly, especially the 'ly' ending.

Frequently asked questions about Carefully

What does Carefully mean?

Doing something with a lot of attention and caution.

What is the definition of Carefully?

with a lot of attention or thought, so that you avoid hurting yourself, damaging something or doing something wrong

How do you use Carefully in a sentence?

She carefully placed the fragile vase on the shelf.

Can you give another example of Carefully?

He studied the instructions carefully before assembling the furniture.

What are synonyms for Carefully?

Common alternatives include cautiously, meticulously, diligently, attentively, safely.

What is the opposite of Carefully?

Opposite meanings include carelessly, recklessly.

What words go with Carefully?

It commonly pairs with handle carefully, read carefully, look carefully, choose carefully, plan carefully.

What are common mistakes when using Carefully?

Using 'careful' instead of 'carefully' as an adverb. Misplacing it in a sentence, making it confusing. Difficulties in pronouncing it correctly, especially the 'ly' ending.

How do you pronounce Carefully?

US: /["/ˈkerfəli/"]/, UK: /["/ˈkeəfəli/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Carefully?

Use 'carefully' to indicate that an action is done with thought and attention. It’s appropriate in both spoken and written English, especially when emphasizing caution. Avoid in very casual conversations where simpler words are preferred.

What CEFR level is Carefully?

"Carefully" is at A2 level on the CEFR scale.