1
general::
1. Be careful, use caution, as in Take care or you will slip on the ice. [Late 1500s] 2. Good-bye, as in I have to go now; take care. This apparent abbreviation of take care of yourself is used both orally and in writing, where it sometimes replaces the conventional Sincerely or Love in signing off correspondence. [Colloquial; 1960s]
American Heritage Idioms
2
general::
Phrase(s): Take care.
Go to Take care (of yourself)., Phrase(s): Take care (of yourself).
1. Good-bye and keep yourself healthy. • John: I’ll see you next month. Good-bye. Bob: Good-bye, John. Take care of yourself. • Mary: Take care. Sue: Okay. See you later. 2. Take care of your health and get well. • Mary: Don’t worry. I’ll get better soon. Sue: Well, take care of yourself. Bye. • Jane: I’m sorry you’re ill. Bob: Oh, it’s nothing. Jane: Well, take care of yourself.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs