What does it mean word for word?
Literally, se cuida means "take care of yourself", where se means "yourself" and cuida means "take care".
Which one should you use?
While se cuida is used to say "take care" or "be safe" in an informal way, cuide-se is the more formal version of this sentiment. Other variations include Tenha cuidado, which translates to "have care" and is a polite way to wish someone caution, Mantenha-se seguro which means "stay safe" and Proteja-se which means "protect yourself".
How does it change in a sentence?
While se cuida is very common in spoken language, cuide-se is the grammatically formal imperative form used when addressing someone with "você" in a more polite or standard context.
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation is /ˈsi ˈkuj.dɐ/. The word has 3 syllables and the stress is on the 1st syllable.
Did you know?
- If you use the formal cuide-se in a very casual setting, such as with close friends, you might accidentally create an emotional distance or sound unintentionally stiff and robotic.
- The word se in the phrase se cuida traces its roots back to the Latin word sē, which was used to denote a reflexive action.
- In Brazil, you might hear people say se cuida with a rising intonation at the end, which can transform the command into a soft, affectionate wish rather than a strict instruction.
Examples in context
- Cuide-se e tenha uma viagem segura!Take care and have a safe journey!
- Tchau, se cuida!Bye, be safe!
- Vá para casa e se cuida.Go home and be safe.
- Até amanhã, se cuida muito.See you tomorrow, take good care of yourself.
Example conversation
Gabriel is leaving Mariana's house after a coffee.
- GabrielJá estou indo, Mariana.I'm leaving now, Mariana.
- MarianaTudo bem, Gabriel. Se cuida!Alright, Gabriel. Be safe!
- GabrielObrigado, você também.Thanks, you too.
- MarianaTchau, até logo!Bye, see you later!
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry se cuida, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries se, CC BY-SA 4.0.
