Meaning:
Be careful what one does or says
Synonyms:
You have to watch your step
You’d better watch your step
Sentences:
You’ll have to watch your step or you’ll find yourself in great difficulty.
You have to watch your step when you do business with people you know nothing about
He’s in a bad mood, so watch your step and don’t say anything wrong!
Conversation 1
A: I’m going to go bushwalking this weekend.
B: Really? Where are you going?
A: Up in the Blue Mountains.
B: Oh, some of the paths up there are very narrow and a little dangerous, you’d better watch your step.
A: Thanks for the advice, but I will be careful.
Conversation 2
A: Did you hear about Kate’s new boyfriend?
B: Yes I met him last weekend.
A: What did you think?
B: There was something about him that I didn’t like.
A: What?
B: I’m not sure, but I didn’t trust him, so I told her to watch her step.
Conversation 3
A: What are you doing tonight?
B: I’m going out drinking with my friends.
A: Where are you going?
B: Up to Kings Cross.
A: You’d better watch your step up there, I hear it can be dangerous.
B: I’ll try to.
Conversation 4
A: I was late for work today, again
B: Oh no, what did the boss say?
A: He wasn’t very happy, he told me that if I didn’t watch my step then I would be looking for a new job.
B: Oh dear, make sure that you are on time tomorrow.
(Callan book4, Stage 8 715p)