Spanish Conversation · Level 12
90 words
Spanish word
cuidado
Pronunciation
IPA/kwiˈðaðo/
Meaning
- interjectionwatch out
Example
¡Cuidado! Hay un coche.
Watch out, there's a car.
More examples
¡Cuidado si hay hielo en el suelo!
Watch out if there's ice on the floor!
Core concept
Sudden urgent warning shouted to prevent immediate danger.
Common phrases
¡Cuidado al subir las escaleras!
watch out as you climb the stairs
Similar words
ojo: Alerts someone with a short sharp exclamation about a nearby or approaching hazard.
atención: Calls nearby people to direct attention to the surroundings and prepare to act.
peligro: Signals the presence of clear imminent danger with a loud urgent cry prompting caution.
Definition in Spanish
Se emplea para avisar a alguien de que debe tener cuidado en ese momento.
Word origin
From the past participle of cuidar (cuidar + -ado), ultimately from Latin cavēre/cautus meaning 'to be on guard', so the interjection condenses the idea of care or caution into an urgent call.
Usage tips
- ¡Cuidado! functions as an immediate alarm on the spot, while Ten cuidado is a gentler admonition for ongoing caution.