take care

To look after someone or something, or deal with something that needs doing.

• I take care of my mother.
• He took care of all the travel arrangements.
• Who will take care of the garden?

How to use it: take care of someone/something (I will take care of your cat while you are away.)

Similar words: look after, handle, deal with

Opposites: neglect

Common phrases: take care of someone, take care of something

To act carefully so that you avoid danger, harm, or mistakes.

• Take care on the ice.
• She took care not to wake the baby.
• Did you take care when handling the glass?

How to use it: take care when doing something (Take care when lifting heavy boxes.); take care not to do something (Take care not to cut yourself.)

Similar words: be careful, watch out

Common phrases: take care outside, take care when crossing

You say this when leaving someone, to wish them safety and good health.

• Bye, take care!
• Take care, and call me when you arrive.
• “Take care,” he said as we left.

Similar words: goodbye, bye

Common phrases: take care everyone, take care now