working carefully

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "working carefully" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone performing a task with attention to detail and caution. Example: "She was working carefully to ensure that every piece of the project was completed to perfection."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

She is working carefully with an apple and a knife.

The New Yorker

"That is why we are working carefully, sterilizing all of our equipment," he said.

The New York Times

It was always thought that the artist was fastidious, working carefully without making many changes.

The New York Times - Arts

A number of other senators have said they want the panel to continue working carefully toward a deal.

The New York Times - Health

They then used simple hand tools to dig the man out, working carefully to prevent the walls of the trench from caving in, the emergency worker said.

The New York Times

But in minutes that search was replaced by the dramatic pictures from Tacoma, in which investigators were seen working carefully as anthropologists.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

So you need to work carefully.

The New York Times - Food

The veteran infielder Greg Dobbs said pitchers fear Stanton, and work carefully around him.

The New York Times - Sports

He then added, confoundingly, "I also like to work carefully and with discipline".

The New York Times - Arts

The judge dictated to the uniformed gendarme at the typewriter, who worked carefully and deliberately.

The New Yorker

Investigators worked carefully scooping up forensic evidence, sweeping ashes and charred debris into bags.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a process or procedure, use "working carefully" to emphasize the need for precision and attention to detail. This clarifies that accuracy is paramount and reduces the risk of errors.

Common error

While "working carefully" is valuable, avoid using it excessively. Overuse can make your writing sound repetitive and diminish the impact. Instead, vary your language with synonyms like "proceeding cautiously" or "acting meticulously" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "working carefully" typically functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe the manner in which an action is performed. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Wiki

23%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "working carefully" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe performing a task with precision and caution. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is widely accepted and understood. It functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs to emphasize the manner of action. The phrase is suitable for various contexts, from news reporting to general instructions, and is particularly frequent in "News & Media" and "Wiki" sources. While it is beneficial to emphasize caution, overuse can lead to repetitive writing; therefore, varying the language with alternatives like "proceeding cautiously" or "acting meticulously" is recommended.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

proceeding cautiously

This alternative emphasizes the careful and wary manner in which the action is performed, focusing on avoiding potential risks.

acting meticulously

This highlights the precision and attention to detail involved in the action, emphasizing accuracy and thoroughness.

handling with precision

This alternative underlines the exactness and skill required in dealing with something, particularly sensitive or delicate tasks.

executing with diligence

This emphasizes the persistent and careful effort applied in carrying out the task, highlighting dedication and thoroughness.

undertaking with caution

This stresses the awareness of potential dangers and the need for careful consideration when starting or performing the task.

operating heedfully

This alternative emphasizes being mindful and attentive to avoid mistakes or accidents while carrying out a task.

functioning prudently

This suggests using good judgment and practical wisdom in the execution of a task, emphasizing foresight and careful planning.

managing circumspectly

This highlights the careful and watchful approach to managing a situation or task, emphasizing prudence and discretion.

addressing with deliberation

This indicates a thoughtful and intentional approach, emphasizing careful consideration and a measured pace.

maneuvering gingerly

This emphasizes the delicacy and care required when moving or handling something, often to avoid damage or disruption.

FAQs

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

You can use "working carefully" to describe someone performing a task with great attention to detail. For example, "The investigators were "working carefully" to gather forensic evidence at the scene."

What are some alternatives to "working carefully"?

Alternatives include "proceeding cautiously", "acting meticulously", or "handling with precision". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "working carefully" or "working accurately"?

"Working carefully" emphasizes the method and attention to detail, while "working accurately" emphasizes the result of being correct. The choice depends on whether you want to highlight the process or the outcome. Consider also that you may "working accurately" without "working carefully".

When should I use "working carefully" instead of "working efficiently"?

Use "working carefully" when precision and accuracy are more important than speed. Use "working efficiently" when speed and productivity are the primary concerns. Sometimes, it is best to balance both, and perhaps "working efficiently" implies "working carefully" in certain contexts, and vice versa.