Basic Details
Word: Careful
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Taking care to avoid mistakes or accidents; being cautious.
Synonyms: Cautious, attentive, vigilant
Antonyms: Careless, reckless, hasty
Idioms and Phrases
- Careful what you wish for: Be cautious because what you desire may have unwanted consequences. Example: "She wanted to be rich, but now she understands to be careful what she wishes for, as it brings problems."
- Take care: To be cautious or careful. Example: "Make sure to take care when crossing the street so you stay safe."
Usage Examples
Example 1: He was very careful while riding his bicycle, always watching for cars.
Example 2: She placed the fragile vase carefully on the table to prevent it from breaking.
Example 3: It's important to be careful with your homework, as mistakes can lower your grade.
Fun Fact
The word "careful" comes from the Old English word " carful," which combines "car," meaning "to grieve or feel." It suggests being full of care and concern for something, leading to its modern meaning of being cautious and attentive.
Famous Quote
"Take care to get what you like or you will be forced to like what you get." George Bernard Shaw
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "careful" mean?
a) Being very quick
b) Being cautious and avoiding mistakes
c) Being lazy
d) Being confused
Answer: b) Being cautious and avoiding mistakes
2. Which of these is a synonym of "careful"?
a) Reckless
b) Cautious
c) Indifferent
d) Hasty
Answer: b) Cautious
3. What is an antonym of "careful"?
a) Diligent
b) Careless
c) Attentive
d) Thoughtful
Answer: b) Careless
4. Which sentence uses "careful" correctly?
a) She was careful to wear her shoes on the rug.
b) He was careful when juggling sharp knives.
c) He was careful about which video to watch on the computer.
d) She was careful baking cookies in the oven.
Answer: b) He was careful when juggling sharp knives.
5. Which idiom means to be cautious?
a) Careful what you wish for
b) Jumping into the deep end
c) Running with scissors
d) Cutting corners
Answer: a) Careful what you wish for
