PrettyFluent
This is just a lesson preview. Get the interactive lesson free on PrettyFluent
⚠️👀

How to Say ‘If (I) am careful; if (I) watch out’ in Japanese

きをつけたら

ki o tsuke tara

[kee oh tsoo-keh tah-rah]

💬 Usage Tip: From [気をつける]. The [〜たら] form means “if/when.” Often used for advice-seeking: [気をつけたらいいですか].

🇯🇵 In Japan: This is a very “Japanese” way to ask for guidance politely, without sounding like you’re demanding instructions.

Phrase Breakdown

ki

[kee]

spirit; attention; care

In きをつける, き means attention/care, as in “be careful.”

Example

きが足りないと言われました。

I was told I’m not paying enough attention.

o

[oh]

(object marker particle)

In きをつける, を marks き (attention) as the object you “apply.”

Example

薬を忘れないようにします。

I’ll try not to forget my medicine.

つけ

tsuke

[tsoo-keh]

attach; apply (as in “pay attention”)

Part of きをつける: to be careful/pay attention (diet, salt, exercise).

Example

食事に気をつけます。つけ

I will be careful about my diet. (showing つけ)

たら

tara

[tah-rah]

if/when (conditional)

たら form: “if/when you do…” Used when asking what to do for better health.

Example

運動したら楽になりますか。たら

If I exercise, will it get better? (showing たら)

Get the Full Learning Experience

This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.

Pronunciation Feedback

AI-powered speech recognition to perfect your accent

Spaced Repetition

Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice

Immersive Roleplaying

Practice real conversations with AI partners

Custom Scenarios

Request lessons tailored to your specific needs

Download PrettyFluent on the App StoreGet Full Lesson

What Learners Are Saying

Teaching in Osaka and I wanted to connect with my students beyond the classroom. The everyday conversation scenarios made my Japanese feel natural, not textbook-y.

Mia S., 25, English Teacher

Moved to Tokyo and the polite vs. casual speech levels were killing me. This app breaks it all down with real scenarios. My coworkers noticed the difference in weeks.

Kevin Z., 31, Game Developer

I tried five different apps before this one. The roleplay conversations are what finally made things click. I actually remember what I learn now.

Sofia R., 31, Marketing Manager