Heads up

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Heads up" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to alert someone to pay attention or to prepare for something that is about to happen. Example: "Just a heads up, there will be a meeting tomorrow at 10 AM."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

Heads up, Sen. Grassley.

The New York Times

Heads up, ears forward.

The New York Times - Books

Heads up, Muslims – the army needs you!

The Guardian

Heads up!

Forbes

Heads up, Android fans.

TechCrunch

Heads up, Google.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

They headed up Pennsylvania Ave.

The New Yorker

"He lifted his head up".

The New York Times

"I'll mess your head up".

The New York Times - Books

"Head up! No! Head up!" "Not chest up, chest out!

The New York Times - Sports

Head up, eyes down.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "Heads up" to provide a quick, informal warning or alert about something imminent. It's best suited for casual communication.

Common error

Avoid using "Heads up" in formal or professional settings. Opt for more professional alternatives like "Please be advised" or "Note that" to maintain a polished tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "Heads up" is as an interjection, used to alert or warn someone. Ludwig AI examples show it functioning as a call for attention in various contexts, from friendly warnings to important announcements.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Wiki

18%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"Heads up" functions primarily as an informal interjection to alert someone to potential danger or important information. It's commonly used in news media and online communications, though less suited for formal contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, making it appropriate for casual settings. Alternatives like "watch out" or "pay attention" may be more fitting for specific situations. Remember to use "Heads up" judiciously to maintain appropriate tone and clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Watch out

This alternative is a direct warning, similar to alerting someone of immediate danger.

Be careful

This phrase advises caution, differing slightly by emphasizing prevention.

Look alive

This expresses the need for alertness, adding urgency to the situation.

Pay attention

This alternative is a direct instruction to focus, less about immediate danger.

Take heed

This phrase is more formal and emphasizes thoughtfulness in response to a warning.

Be alert

This suggests maintaining a state of awareness, less immediate than "watch out".

Mind out

This is a more informal warning, common in British English.

On your guard

This suggests being prepared for potential threats, shifting from immediate warning to readiness.

Forewarned is forearmed

This is a proverb encouraging preparation based on prior warning, more explanatory than alerting.

Word of caution

This phrase introduces advice, less urgent and more advisory.

FAQs

How can I use "Heads up" in a sentence?

You can use "Heads up" to give a warning or alert. For example, "Heads up, there's a car coming!" or "Heads up, the deadline is tomorrow."

What's a more formal alternative to "Heads up"?

In formal contexts, you can use phrases like "Please be advised", "Note that", or "Kindly be informed" instead of "heads up".

Is "Heads up" appropriate for professional communication?

"Heads up" is generally considered informal. For professional communication, it's better to use more formal alternatives unless you're aiming for a very casual tone with colleagues.

What does "Heads up" mean?

"Heads up" is an informal way to warn someone or call their attention to something. It's like saying "Look out!" or "Pay attention!".