Yes, there is. It depends on the context or what the person really wants to say. Sometimes it also applies as a synonym but sometime it doesn't. There is no perfect way to explain it without examples so I'll try my best: 1: Kind of different meanings - I care for that project (it's really important for you) - I take care of that project (you take it over) - I care about that project (you worry about it) 2: Similar meanings - I will care for my brother during the day (same as take care of) - I take care of my brother during the day (same as care for) - I will care about my brother today (similar but like you will pay attention to him) There will probably be more better examples. I hope this helped you a little