German word

sorgfältig

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈzɔɐ̯kˌfɛltɪç/

Meaning

  • adjectivecareful

Example

Er ist sorgfältiger als sein Kollege.

He is more careful than his colleague.

Illustration for sorgfältig (careful)

More examples

Die sorgfältige Dokumentation erleichterte die Arbeit.

The careful documentation made the work easier.

Core concept

A deliberate hand checks each part of a task and leaves no detail unattended.

Common phrases

  • sorgfältige Dokumentation

    careful documentation

  • auf sorgfältige Weise

    in a careful manner

  • sorgfältige Untersuchung

    careful examination

Similar words

aufmerksam: Close attention detects small changes and signals from people or surroundings.
genau: Exact results have no errors or slight deviations in number or form.
gründlich: Complete work examines every stage from beginning to end without gaps.
gewissenhaft: A dutiful approach completes assigned work and keeps promises responsibly.

Definition in German

Mit Bedacht und Genauigkeit vorgehen; Tätigkeiten so ausführen, dass nichts übersehen wird.

Word origin

Sorgfältig is derived from the noun Sorgfalt by adding the adjective suffix -ig.

Usage tips

  • For physical danger, German usually uses vorsichtig, while sorgfältig describes careful work, checking, or preparation.

Other meanings

  • thoroughadjective
  • conscientiousadjective
  • meticulousadjective

Opposites

Related words

  • Sorgfaltspflichtduty of carenoun
  • Sorgfaltcarenoun

Word lists with this word