Inklingo

How to Say "watch out!" in Spanish

English → Spanish

cuidado

/kwee-DAH-doh//kwiˈða.ðo/

InterjectionA1general
Use `cuidado` when warning someone about an immediate or physical danger that requires their attention to avoid harm.
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!).

ojo

OH-hoh/ˈoxo/

InterjectionA2general
Use `ojo` as a more general alert or heads-up, often to draw attention to something noteworthy or potentially problematic that isn't necessarily an immediate physical threat.
A simple cartoon squirrel is running quickly along a path towards a large, unexpected puddle of water. A small, alarmed bird is hovering nearby, urgently pointing its wing towards the puddle to warn the squirrel.

Examples

¡Ojo! Hay un coche detrás de ti.

Watch out! There's a car behind you.

Ojo, mañana tenemos que entregar el proyecto sin falta.

Heads up, tomorrow we have to turn in the project without fail.

Always Singular

When used as a warning, 'ojo' is always used in the singular, often followed by an exclamation mark.

Choosing between 'cuidado' and 'ojo'

Learners often confuse `cuidado` and `ojo` by using `ojo` for serious dangers. Remember that `cuidado` is the stronger, more direct warning for immediate physical threats, while `ojo` is a more general alert.

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