Translation guide
How to express the idea of doing something carefully, with awareness of potential danger or risk, in Japanese.
To do something carefully, paying attention to avoid mistakes or danger.
The most common and versatile way to say 'with caution' or 'carefully'. It comes from the noun 注意 (caution/attention) and the verb する (to do).
Please carry the glass with caution.
He drove with caution.
Means 'carefully' or 'prudently', often used when careful judgment is needed. Slightly more formal than 注意して.
Let's proceed with the plan with caution.
Implies being on guard against potential danger or trouble. Often used for personal safety.
Please walk with caution on the streets at night.
To advise someone to be careful or to warn them about something.
The most common phrase for 'be careful' or 'take care'. Used in everyday conversation.
Please be careful of the cars.
Watch your step. (lit. Be careful of your feet.)
A polite and formal way to say 'please be careful' or 'please pay attention'. Often used in announcements or signs.
Please watch your step. (formal)
To approach something with doubt or not fully trusting it.
注意して is the most general 'carefully'. 慎重に implies careful judgment and prudence, often in decision-making. 用心して is about being on guard against danger, often for personal safety.
I checked the documents carefully.
I chose the investment destination with caution (prudence).
I locked the door with caution (against burglars).