'Cuidar a' and 'cuidar de'

[fglorca]

Is there any difference between 'cuidar a' and cuidar de'?

Many thanks in advance.

[AngelicaDeAlquezar]

According to the DRAE, both constructions are valid and mean the same thing: to make sure someone or something won't be harmed. The only difference is the transitive (without "de") or intransitive (with "de") nature of the verb.

- Mis padres cuidan de nosotros. = Mis padres nos cuidan.
- El perro cuida de la casa. = El perro cuida la casa.


"Cuidar" is more often heard in colloquial speech (at least, in Mexico) than "cuidar de".


By the way, when the verb is "cuidarse", it means to stay alert for danger, and "de" will then introduce the threat from which someone must be protected.


- Cuídate del sol; puedes quemarte.
Protect yourself from the sun; you may get burned.

- Hay que cuidarse de los asaltantes en las calles.
We have to be vigilant of the robbers in the streets.

- Mis padres nos cuidan de cualquier peligro.
My parents protect us from any danger.