German Conversation · Level 159
29 words
German word
behutsam
Pronunciation
IPA/bəˈhuːtzaːm/
Meaning
- adverbcarefully
Example
Bitte geh behutsam die Treppe hinunter.
Please go carefully down the stairs.
More examples
Man sollte an das Thema behutsam herangehen.
One should approach the topic carefully.
Core concept
A careful hand moves slowly around something fragile, whether it is an object, a person, or a sensitive feeling.
Common phrases
an etwas behutsam herangehen
approach something carefully
mit etwas behutsam umgehen
handle something carefully
etwas behutsam formulieren
formulate something carefully
Similar words
vorsichtig: Carefully, so that danger or damage is avoided.
sachte: With a light touch and reduced force.
umsichtig: Thoughtfully and carefully, considering what may happen next.
Definition in German
Mit Bedacht und schonender Vorgehensweise etwas tun, besonders um Personen, Gegenstände oder Gefühle nicht zu schädigen
Word origin
Behutsam is formed from behüten, meaning 'to protect', with the suffix -sam, which expresses a characteristic or manner.
Usage tips
- Behutsam often describes considerate treatment of people or sensitive matters, while vorsichtig more often emphasizes avoiding physical danger.
Other meanings
- cautiouslyadverb
- gentlyadverb
Opposites
- unvorsichtigcarelesslyadverb
- leichtsinnigrecklesslyadverb
Related words
- Behutsamkeitcarefulnessnoun