20 Other Ways to Say “Take Care”

“Take care” is a familiar phrase used to express concern for someone’s well-being as they depart or face a situation that requires attention. It is warm and considerate, but sometimes we might want to use different words to convey the same sentiment. Here are various ways to do just that, suitable for a range of situations and relationships.

Affectionate Alternatives

1. Stay safe

• Example: “With the storm coming, stay safe and don’t take any unnecessary risks.”
• Explanation: This shows a personal concern for the person’s safety, especially pertinent in potentially hazardous circumstances.

2. Be well

• Example: “I’ll see you after the holidays; be well until then.”
• Explanation: This alternative expresses a genuine wish for the person’s overall well-being.

3. Look after yourself

• Example: “You’ve been working so hard lately—look after yourself and get some rest.”
• Explanation: Here, the speaker is encouraging self-care, emphasizing the importance of personal health.

Formal Alternatives

4. I wish you well

• Example: “As we conclude our business, I wish you well in all your future endeavors.”
• Explanation: This is a formal way of saying “take care” when ending a professional relationship or meeting.

5. Fare thee well

• Example: “As you embark on this new chapter of life, fare thee well.”
• Explanation: An old-fashioned and literary phrase that wishes someone good fortune and safety.

6. I bid you a fond adieu

• Example: “Our partnership has been fruitful, and now I bid you a fond adieu.”
• Explanation: This is a very formal and somewhat archaic way of wishing someone goodbye along with well wishes.

Casual Alternatives

7. Peace out

• Example: “Alright, I’m heading out—peace out!”
• Explanation: An informal and trendy way of saying goodbye along with a casual expression of goodwill.

8. Keep it real

• Example: “I won’t see you until next semester, so keep it real and have fun.”
• Explanation: This phrase is usually said in a casual context, encouraging the person to remain true to themselves.

9. Catch you later

• Example: “I’ve got to run now, catch you later and stay out of trouble!”
• Explanation: A laid-back way to say goodbye that implies good wishes and a future meeting.

Thoughtful Alternatives

10. Don’t forget to rest

• Example: “You’ve got a lot on your plate. Don’t forget to rest, okay?”
• Explanation: This reflects thoughtful consideration for someone’s workload and the need for balance.

11. Mind how you go

• Example: “It’s icy outside, so mind how you go on those roads.”
• Explanation: Particularly used in the UK, this phrase cautions someone to be careful in their travels.

12. Stay healthy

• Example: “With the flu going around, stay healthy and avoid getting sick.”
• Explanation: This is pertinent advice for someone to maintain their health, especially during times of illness.

Endearing Alternatives

13. Keep smiling

• Example: “No matter what happens, keep smiling—you’ll get through this.”
• Explanation: It is a way to encourage someone to stay positive during difficult times.

14. All the best

• Example: “You’re moving to a new city, how exciting! All the best with the big change.”
• Explanation: A genuine wish for someone’s good fortune and success.

15. Sending you good vibes

• Example: “I know it’s your first day at the new job—sending you good vibes!”
• Explanation: This modern, informal expression sends positive energy or thoughts to someone.

Brief Alternatives

16. Best

• Example: “I have to head out now, best!”
• Explanation: A quick, informal way to wish someone well, often used in written communication like emails.

17. Take it easy

• Example: “You deserve a break after finishing that project—take it easy this weekend.”
• Explanation: This phrase suggests relaxation and a reduced pace, wishing someone a stress-free time.

18. Go easy

• Example: “You’re recovering from an injury, so go easy at the gym.”
• Explanation: A reminder to take care of oneself and not overdo it, particularly in recovery or exertion.

Encouraging Alternatives

19. Keep up the good work

• Example: “You’re making great progress with your lessons, keep up the good work!”
• Explanation: This encourages someone to continue their efforts and acknowledges their achievements.

20. Hold down the fort

• Example: “I’ll be on vacation for a week, so hold down the fort while I’m gone.”
• Explanation: This expression is a way to encourage someone to remain steadfast and in control, typically used when leaving someone in charge.