Translation guide
The English word 'careful' covers several related ideas: being cautious to avoid danger or mistakes, paying close attention to detail, and handling things with care. Japanese expresses these with different words and phrases depending on the nuance.
He is a careful person.
Expressing that someone is careful in order to prevent accidents, errors, or negative outcomes.
An adjective meaning 'careful' in the sense of being attentive and cautious. Often used to describe a person's character or actions.
He is a very careful driver.
A very common verb phrase meaning 'to be careful' or 'to take care'. Used in warnings and advice.
Means 'to be careful' or 'to pay attention to'. Often used in instructions or when warning someone.
Please watch your step.
Describing careful work, examination, or consideration where precision matters.
A na-adjective meaning 'careful' in the sense of being meticulous, polite, and thorough. Often used for work or service.
She is careful in her work.
A na-adjective meaning 'careful' or 'prudent', often used when making decisions or handling delicate matters.
Means 'meticulous' or 'scrupulous'. Often used in the phrase 細心の注意 (scrupulous care).
Telling someone to be careful with fragile or important items.
注意深い is general carefulness and attentiveness, while 用心深い implies wariness or caution against potential threats. 用心深い is often used for personal safety or suspicious situations.
The English phrase 'Be careful!' is often translated as 気をつけて (ki o tsukete) rather than a direct adjective. Using 注意深い directly as a command is unnatural.
I made the plan carefully.
Emphasizes being wary or on guard against potential danger. Slightly more about vigilance than general carefulness.
A careful person doesn't walk alone at night.
車に気をつけてください。
Please be careful of cars.
Be careful with your language.
Please explain carefully.
慎重に検討します。
We will consider it carefully.
細心の注意を払って作業した。
I worked with the utmost care.