försiktigt

Försiktigt is a Swedish adverb meaning “carefully” or “cautiously.” It describes how an action is performed and signals that the performer aims to avoid danger, mistakes, or unwanted outcomes. It is the adverbial form of the adjective försiktig, which denotes caution.

Common usages include describing practical actions, such as movement or handling objects, as well as more abstract decision-making. Examples: Han kör försiktigt i regnet. Hon lyfte glaset försiktigt så att det inte föll. Vi närmade oss försiktigt det gamla huset. In all these cases, försiktigt emphasizes a deliberate, restrained approach.

Etymology and related terms: försiktigt is formed from för- plus försiktig, the latter meaning cautious or watchful. The noun försiktighet (caution, prudence) and the related adjective försiktig are closely linked, and försiktigt frequently appears in safety, everyday speech, and formal writing to convey prudent conduct.

Synonyms and antonyms: near-synonyms include varsamt and noggrant in contexts where gentleness or thorough care is emphasized. Antonyms include vårdslöst (careless) and riskabelt (risky), which express the opposite attitude or outcome.

Usage notes: försiktigt is versatile across registers, from everyday conversation to instructional or technical text. It commonly co-occurs with verbs of movement, handling, or decision-making, and can carry figurative meaning when describing careful consideration in planning or communication.