read carefully

USAGE SUMMARY

"read carefully" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize that someone should pay close attention to what they are reading. For example: "Please read carefully and make sure to take in any important details."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But read carefully.

The New York Times - Health

The past must be read carefully.

The Economist

This is less reassuring when read carefully.

The Guardian

Select two news stories to read carefully.

The New York Times

However, all emails will be read carefully.

Harvard University

For those following this case, read carefully Clear Channel's response.

The New York Times

The first claim, if read carefully, is not inaccurate.

The Guardian - Opinion

These statements are read carefully and are taken very seriously.

University of California, Berkeley

You should always read carefully before you click on something.

The New York Times - Tech

And even if you get insurance through your employer, you need to read carefully.

The New York Times - Health

These questions are important, and we urge voters to turn the ballot over and read carefully.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When providing instructions or directions, use "read carefully" to ensure the recipient understands the importance of each step and minimizes errors.

Common error

Don't assume a quick skim is sufficient when critical information is presented. Use "read carefully" to avoid misinterpretations and potential oversights.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "read carefully" primarily functions as an imperative, urging the reader to engage with the text in a thorough and attentive manner. Ludwig confirms its widespread usage and grammatical correctness, as demonstrated by numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

31%

Academia

26%

Wiki

26%

Less common in

Science

15%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "read carefully" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that serves as an imperative, urging thorough and attentive reading. As affirmed by Ludwig, it is common across diverse contexts, including news, academia, and general instructions. When writing, use "read carefully" to emphasize the importance of detail and accuracy in understanding written material. As shown by Ludwig's examples, this phrase is best used when precision is paramount. Remember to avoid the grammatically incorrect "read careful". By following these guidelines, you can effectively communicate the need for careful reading in various scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

give a careful reading

Rephrases as a noun phrase, emphasizing the act of giving attention to the reading process.

pay close attention while reading

Explicitly states the need for attention, rather than implying it with the adverb "carefully".

examine closely

Replaces "read" with "examine", suggesting a more detailed inspection than simply reading.

study meticulously

Emphasizes the level of detail and thoroughness in the act of studying the material.

be attentive to the text

Shifts focus to being attentive rather than the act of reading itself.

scrutinize thoroughly

Suggests a critical and in-depth analysis of the text, beyond just reading.

peruse attentively

Uses a more formal verb ("peruse") and highlights the attentiveness required.

analyze judiciously

Focuses on the analytical aspect of reading, implying a careful and reasoned approach.

go through with a fine-tooth comb

An idiomatic expression meaning to examine something very carefully.

ingest information thoughtfully

Changes the metaphor to "ingesting" information, emphasizing thoughtful consideration.

FAQs

How can I use "read carefully" in a sentence?

You can use "read carefully" to emphasize the importance of thoroughness and attention to detail when reading instructions, contracts, or any document requiring precise understanding. For example, "Please "read carefully" the terms and conditions before signing".

What phrases are similar to "read carefully"?

Similar phrases include "examine closely", "study meticulously", or "peruse attentively", all suggesting a thorough and attentive reading process.

Is it ever appropriate to use "read careful" instead of "read carefully"?

No, "read careful" is grammatically incorrect. The adverb "carefully" should be used to modify the verb "read", indicating how the action should be performed.

What's the difference between ""read carefully"" and "listen carefully"?

"Read carefully" advises attentive reading, while "listen carefully" advises attentive listening. Each phrase emphasizes paying close attention to the specific sensory input.