Synonyms:1. watchful, guarded, chary, circumspect.
Careful, cautious, discreet, wary imply a watchful guarding against something.
Careful implies guarding against mistakes, by paying strict and close attention to details, and, often, trying to use good judgment:
He was careful to distinguish between them. Cautious implies a fear of some unfavorable situation and investigation before coming to conclusions:
cautious about investments. Discreet implies being prudent in speech and action and being trustworthy as a confidant:
discreet in manner, in keeping secrets. Wary implies a vigilant lookout for a danger suspected or feared:
wary of polite strangers. 2. meticulous, discerning.
2, 3. See painstaking. 3. conscientious.
4. thoughtful, concerned, solicitous, attentive, heedful, regardful.
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