cuide
“cuide” means “take care” in Spanish (as a request or wish (I hope you take care)).
take care, look after
Also: guard, be careful
📝 In Action
Espero que yo cuide bien mi jardín este verano.
B1I hope that I take good care of my garden this summer. (Uses 'yo' present subjunctive)
Le pedí a María que cuide a mi gato mientras viajo.
B1I asked Maria to look after my cat while I travel. (Uses 'ella' present subjunctive)
Cuide su dinero, señora, es peligroso aquí.
A2Take care of your money, ma'am, it's dangerous here. (Uses 'Usted' affirmative command)
No cuide solo las apariencias, cuide su interior.
B2Don't just look after appearances, look after your inner self. (Uses 'Usted' negative command)
Indicative
Present
Imperfect
Preterite
Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: cuide
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'cuide' as a formal command (Usted)?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The verb 'cuidar' comes from the Latin verb *cōgitāre*, which meant 'to think' or 'to consider.' Over time, the meaning shifted in Spanish to 'think about the well-being of someone' and eventually 'to take care of.'
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'cuide' used for present actions or future actions?
'Cuide' (when used in the present subjunctive) usually refers to actions that are happening now or will happen in the future, depending on the context of the main verb (e.g., 'I hope you take care' refers to ongoing or future care).
What is the difference between 'cuide' and 'cuida'?
'Cuida' is the regular present tense form (he/she/it takes care, or the informal command 'tú'). 'Cuide' is the special form (subjunctive) used for wishes, doubts, or the formal command ('Usted'). They are never interchangeable.