I was warned

USAGE SUMMARY

"I was warned" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you have been given a warning or advised of a potential danger. For example, "I was warned not to go outside during the thunderstorm."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

I was warned.

The New York Times

I was warned there would be protesters.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I was warned to watch out and be careful.

The New York Times

I was warned that it would be uncomfortable.

The New Yorker

But getting around Niijima, I was warned, was not easy.

The New York Times - Travel

I was warned to stop talking, I was warned to stop blaming the IRA".

The Guardian

I was warned never to tread on the cushion plants.

The Guardian

I was warned that she is "a very private person".

The Guardian - Books

"I was warned Jason likes to debate," Tagliabue said later.

The New York Times - Sports

I was warned about this before I went.

The New York Times - Style

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

I was warned, though.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "I was warned", clearly state the source and nature of the warning to provide context and credibility.

Common error

Avoid using "I was warned" without specifying what you were warned about. Be specific to avoid confusion and provide necessary information.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I was warned" functions as a statement indicating that the speaker received a warning about something. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English, serving to introduce information that follows. It sets an expectation of potential negative consequences or advice to avoid certain actions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Science

9%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I was warned" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to convey the receipt of a warning or cautionary advice. Ludwig AI validates its proper usage, highlighting its function in setting expectations about potential risks or negative consequences. Predominantly found in news and media sources, its register remains neutral, adapting to both formal and informal scenarios. When employing this phrase, clarity about the source and content of the warning enhances its impact. Alternatives such as "I received a warning" or "I was cautioned" offer similar meanings with subtle nuances. By avoiding vagueness and providing specific details, writers can effectively use "I was warned" to add depth and context to their narratives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I was forewarned

A more concise and slightly formal way of saying 'I was warned'.

I received a warning

Focuses on the act of receiving a warning rather than the state of being warned.

I had fair warning

Highlights that the warning was adequate and timely.

I had been cautioned

Uses a more formal term, 'cautioned', suggesting a serious warning.

I was advised against it

Specifies that the warning was against a particular action.

I was alerted to the danger

Emphasizes the element of danger that the warning was about.

I was put on notice

Suggests a formal warning, often with legal or official implications.

I was told to be careful

Focuses on the advice given to exercise caution.

I knew the risks

Implies awareness of potential problems, even without a direct warning.

I was given a heads-up

An informal way of saying 'I was warned', suggesting a friendly alert.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "I was warned"?

You can use alternatives like "I received a warning", "I was cautioned", or "I was advised against it" depending on the context.

Is "I was warned" grammatically correct?

Yes, "I was warned" is grammatically correct. It is a passive voice construction using the past tense of the verb "to warn".

How to use "I was warned" in a sentence?

You can use "I was warned" to indicate that you received a warning about something. For example, "I was warned not to touch the hot stove".

What's the difference between "I was warned" and "I was told"?

"I was warned" implies a potential danger or negative consequence, while "I was told" is a more neutral statement indicating the receipt of information. For example, "I was warned about the slippery floor" versus "I was told the meeting was canceled."