Inklingo

How to Say "careful" in Spanish

English → Spanish

cuidadoso

/kwee-dah-DOH-soh//kwiðaˈðoso/

AdjectiveA2General
Use 'cuidadoso' when referring to someone who is attentive and takes precautions to avoid damage or mistakes, often with physical objects or actions.
A small, simplified character holding a large, fragile white egg very gently in both hands, illustrating carefulness and caution.

Examples

Mi abuelo es muy cuidadoso con sus herramientas de jardín.

My grandfather is very careful with his garden tools.

Ella fue cuidadosa al hablar para no ofender a nadie.

She was cautious when speaking so as not to offend anyone.

El informe del arquitecto fue muy cuidadoso y detallado.

The architect's report was very thorough and detailed.

Adjective Agreement

Since 'cuidadoso' describes a person or thing, its ending must change to match the gender and number: 'cuidadoso' (masculine singular), 'cuidadosa' (feminine singular), 'cuidadosos' (masculine plural), and 'cuidadosas' (feminine plural).

Confusing Adjective and Adverb

Mistake: “Using 'cuidadoso' to describe how an action is done (e.g., 'Ella conduce cuidadoso').”

Correction: Use the adverb 'cuidadosamente' to describe the action: 'Ella conduce cuidadosamente' (She drives carefully).

mirado

mee-RAH-doh/miˈɾa.ðo/

AdjectiveB2General
Use 'mirado' when describing someone who is prudent and shows caution, especially regarding financial matters or when making decisions to avoid unnecessary risks.
A small hedgehog carefully walking across a puddle using a wooden plank, illustrating caution and prudence.

Examples

Mi abuelo es muy mirado con su dinero, nunca gasta de más.

My grandfather is very careful with his money; he never overspends.

Fue una decisión miradísima, pensada por meses.

It was a very considered decision, thought about for months.

Adjective Agreement

Like all Spanish adjectives, 'mirado' must match the person or thing it describes. Use 'mirada' for feminine singular, 'mirados' for masculine plural, and 'miradas' for feminine plural.

Cuidadoso vs. Mirado

Learners often confuse 'cuidadoso' and 'mirado' by using 'cuidadoso' for financial prudence. Remember that 'cuidadoso' typically applies to physical actions and avoiding damage, while 'mirado' is better for financial caution and general prudence.

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