Inklingo

How to Say "look out!" in Spanish

English → Spanish

cuidado

/kwee-DAH-doh//kwiˈða.ðo/

InterjectionA1General
Use 'cuidado' when giving a general warning about a potential hazard, like a wet floor or an obstacle, that requires attention.
A close-up image of a person's hand sharply extended forward in a universal stop gesture, warning of immediate danger or caution.

Examples

¡Cuidado! El suelo está mojado.

Watch out! The floor is wet.

¡Cuidado con el perro!

Be careful of the dog!

¡Cuidado, que te caes!

Be careful, you're going to fall!

Warning About Something Specific

To warn someone about a particular thing, use the structure '¡Cuidado con + [the thing]!'. For example, '¡Cuidado con el coche!' (Watch out for the car!).

aguas

AH-gwas/ˈaɣwas/

InterjectionB1Informal
Use 'aguas' as a more urgent and informal warning, typically for sudden or unexpected dangers, like something falling or a car approaching quickly.
A colorful illustration showing one figure urgently pointing upwards while another figure ducks to avoid a large object falling from the sky.

Examples

¡Aguas! El piso está resbaloso.

Look out! The floor is slippery.

Cuando grité '¡Aguas!', todos se movieron rápidamente.

When I shouted 'Heads up!', everyone moved quickly.

A Fixed Expression

This is a set phrase that always stays the same, regardless of who you are talking to. Think of it as a single, urgent command.

Choosing Between 'Cuidado' and 'Aguas'

Learners often confuse 'cuidado' and 'aguas' because both are warnings. However, 'cuidado' is the safer, more versatile choice for most situations, while 'aguas' is more colloquial and better suited for immediate, unexpected dangers.

Related Translations

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