Translation guide
How to express caution in Japanese, from warning someone to being careful yourself.
You want to alert someone to immediate danger or a risky situation.
The most common and direct way to shout 'Watch out!' or 'It's dangerous!' in an urgent situation.
Watch out! A car is coming!
A general 'be careful' or 'take care'. Used for less immediate dangers or as a parting phrase.
Please watch your step.
A noun meaning 'caution' or 'warning'. Often used on signs or in formal warnings.
You want to tell someone to be careful in a non-urgent situation, like giving advice.
You want to refer to an official caution or reprimand.
A formal warning, often from an authority. Can be a verb (警告する) or noun.
You want to say that you are being cautious or careful about something.
Means 'to be cautious' or 'to be prudent', emphasizing careful decision-making.
気をつけて帰ってね。
Take care on your way home.
Handle with care.
The standard verb phrase for 'to be careful'. Can be used in various forms.
I need to be more careful.
Be careful with your words.
Means 'caution' or 'precaution', often against potential harm or crime.
Be careful with fire.
Means 'to be on guard' or 'to be vigilant', used for serious threats like natural disasters or security.
Please be on alert for the typhoon.
I received a warning from the police.
A formal advisory or cautionary notice, often used in official contexts.
The meteorological agency issued a cautionary advisory.
Please act with caution.
An adjective meaning 'cautious' or 'wary' as a personality trait.
He is a cautious person.
Please watch your step. (formal sign)
Shouting 注意！ at someone is unnatural. Use 危ない！ for immediate danger or 気をつけて！ for a general warning.