cuidado
care
The Spanish word 'cuidado' is used in much the same way as the English word 'care.' It can refer to the action of caring for someone or something, such as in the phrase 'cuidado de niños,' which means 'childcare.' It can also function as an interjection, used to warn of danger or caution, much like saying 'careful!' in English.
Example sentences using: cuidado
¡Cuidado, vespa!
Watch out, wasp!
A warning phrase used to alert someone nearby of a wasp to avoid getting stung.
¡Cuidado con el perro!
Beware of the dog!
This phrase is generally used in Spanish speaking countries as a direct warning about a potentially dangerous dog within a property.
Ten cuidado al cruzar la calle.
Be careful crossing the street.
This phrase is typically used by parents or caregivers to caution children about the dangers of not paying attention when crossing a street.
El cuidado del medio ambiente es importante.
Caring for the environment is important.
An example of a more figurative use where 'cuidado' is equivalent to 'care', 'attention or 'protection' when referring to the environment.
¡Cuidado, suelo mojado!
Caution, wet floor!
This phrase is a universal warning about a slippery floor caused by wetness or dampness, often used in public places such as restaurants or shopping centres.
Es importante el cuidado personal.
Personal care is important.
In this sentence, 'cuidado' refers to the care, maintenance, and attention one gives to one's own body for health and hygiene purposes.
Cuidado con las escaleras, están peldañas rotas.
Be careful with the stairs, there are broken steps.
This is a cautionary phrase warning about the potential danger of using a stairway that has broken or faulty steps.
Ten cuidado con el bebé, todavía no puede mantener el equilibrio.
Be careful with the baby, he still can't maintain balance.
A warning phrase used to remind someone to take caution handling a baby who has not yet developed the ability to balance.
Por favor, cuidado con las plantas.
Please, be careful with the plants.
This is a polite request asking someone to take care not to damage or harm the plants.
Cuidado con los papeles, están ordenados.
Be careful with the papers, they are sorted.
This phrase is used to alert someone to handle a neat stack or order of papers carefully to avoid mixing them up.