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care for
/keər fɔːr/
to like or be fond of someone or something
She really cares for her younger siblings.
She shows affection and responsibility toward her younger siblings.
informal
To feel affection or concern for someone or something
He doesn't care for spicy food.
He doesn't like spicy food.
The nurse cares for the elderly patients with kindness.
The nurse takes care of the elderly patients with kindness.
This phrase can express both emotional attachment and responsibility.
informal
To take care of or look after someone or something
Can you care for the dog while I'm away?
Can you take care of the dog while I'm away?
This usage is more about responsibility than affection.
Collocations
care for someoneto feel affection for someonecare for somethingto like or be fond of somethingcare for the sickto take care of sick people
Synonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Context Matters
The meaning of 'care for' depends on context—whether it's about affection or responsibility.
Gold Rule
Avoid Confusion
Use 'care for' when expressing affection or responsibility, but clarify with context if needed.
Word Origin
From Middle English 'caren' (to grieve) + 'for' (in favor of). The phrase developed to mean both emotional attachment and practical care.
Usage Notes
The phrase can be ambiguous—context determines whether it means emotional affection or practical responsibility.
Word Breakdown
care
to feel affection or take responsibility
rootfor
in favor of or toward
prepositionEnglish Dictionary