Definition of carefulnext
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Synonym Chooser

How is the word careful different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of careful are meticulous, punctilious, and scrupulous. While all these words mean "showing close attention to detail," careful implies attentiveness and cautiousness in avoiding mistakes.

a careful worker

When can meticulous be used instead of careful?

Although the words meticulous and careful have much in common, meticulous may imply either commendable extreme carefulness or a hampering finicky caution over small points.

meticulous scholarship

When could punctilious be used to replace careful?

The words punctilious and careful are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, punctilious implies minute, even excessive attention to fine points.

punctilious observance of ritual

In what contexts can scrupulous take the place of careful?

While in some cases nearly identical to careful, scrupulous applies to what is proper or fitting or ethical.

scrupulous honesty

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of careful Spread the paste over the bottom surface, being careful not to get the mixture on any heating elements or gas vents. Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 26 June 2026 Be careful with links in Facebook groups, WhatsApp chats or emails that claim to offer verified seats. Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 26 June 2026 Be careful letting your dogs outside, and keep your dogs leashed while walking or hiking. Ashley Portillo, CBS News, 26 June 2026 Be careful when handling debris that may have blown into your yard. Ca Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 26 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for careful
Recent Examples of Synonyms for careful
Adjective
  • Berkeley adopted a more cautious approach.
    Tracy Grant, Encyclopedia Britannica, 24 June 2026
  • The data also points to a more cautious approach to automation than much of the AI industry’s messaging might suggest.
    Jason Phillips, USA Today, 24 June 2026
Adjective
  • What appears as speed in global organizations is often the result of meticulous logistical preparation and an expert knowledge of regulatory environments.
    Armand Arton, Forbes.com, 29 June 2026
  • Chef Natsuko Shoji blends Tiffany glamour with Japanese ingredients, craftsmanship, and meticulous attention to detail.
    Staff Author, Travel + Leisure, 26 June 2026
Adjective
  • Not only is the water less aesthetically pleasing, but Abrams is wary of it.
    Bill Kearney, Sun Sentinel, 28 June 2026
  • Stiff opposition certainly will emerge, and cost-of-living worries have the public wary of being charged more for anything, but the new revenue is for popular spending targets.
    Michael Smolens, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 June 2026
Adjective
  • Can its legions drink that much beer and still be conscientious enough to clear away the trash?
    Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 25 June 2026
  • Trea Turner was conscientious enough to wait for his double-play partner, Bryson Stott, who had authored one of the finest games of his career.
    Matt Gelb, New York Times, 24 June 2026
Adjective
  • First responders found the woman conscious and alert after an umbrella stake pierced her shoulder.
    Kelly McGreal, FOXNews.com, 23 June 2026
  • On 19th Street between The Paseo and Vine Street, officers found two women with gunshot wounds who were conscious and alert and one man who was unresponsive, Kansas City Police Department spokesman Capt.
    Kendrick Calfee, Kansas City Star, 20 June 2026
Adjective
  • The ethos of the festival also involves looking out for fellow attendees, respecting The Farm and taking the loving energy of the festival out into the world.
    Patrick Connolly, The Orlando Sentinel, 27 June 2026
  • The fun-loving, kilt-wearing Scottish fans took over Boston and South Florida and endeared themselves to both communities.
    Michelle Kaufman, Miami Herald, 27 June 2026
Adjective
  • Now, Miami-Dade Fire Rescue says its diligent job is done, signaling full containment of the fires soon.
    Devoun Cetoute, Miami Herald, 25 June 2026
  • Since then, Roberts, who will also manage the NL All-Star team, has appreciated how diligent Pages has remained in his routine.
    Maddie Lee, Los Angeles Times, 21 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Careful.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/careful. Accessed 3 Jul. 2026.

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