Definition of careful

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care·ful    (kârfl) KEY 

ADJECTIVE:

1. Attentive to potential danger, error, or harm; cautious: was careful when crossing the busy street; gave a careful answer.
2. Thorough and painstaking in action or execution; conscientious: a careful search; careful art restorers.
3. Protective; solicitous: Be careful of his feelings.
4. Full of cares or anxiety: "Thou art careful and troubled about many things" (Luke 10:41).

OTHER FORMS:
careful·ly(Adverb), careful·ness(Noun)

SYNONYMS:
careful, heedful, mindful, observant, watchful

These adjectives mean cautiously attentive: was careful not to get her shoes muddy; heedful of the danger; mindful of his health; observant of the patient's symptoms; a watchful babysitter. See also Synonyms at meticulous.
Antonym: careless