carefully
//ˈkɛːf(ə)li//
Forms
- Comparative
- more carefully
- Superlative
- most carefully
Definitions
1.With care; attentively, circumspectly.
- He carefully avoided the subject all evening.
- He carefully studied the papers, while planning his next move.
- As he was a politician, he discussed all subjects carefully, not offending anyone.
2.Conscientiously, painstakingly, fastidiously, meticulously
- My mother carefully opened the door.
- He listened very carefully in order not to miss a single word.
Frequency
Overall
Uncommon· #2058
By learning goal
- Everyday conversation
- Rare
- General reading & writing
- Uncommon
- Academic
- Rare
- Literature
- Rare
Related words
Word family
Etymology
From Middle English carfulli, carefulliche
From Old English carfullīċe, ċearfullīċe (“carefully, diligently”), equivalent to careful + -ly.