a cautionary remark

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a cautionary remark" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to provide a warning or advice about a potential risk or issue. Example: "Before you proceed with the investment, I have a cautionary remark regarding the market trends."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

In closing this essay, a cautionary remark is in order, however: all of the preceding accounts are simply a heuristic way of conceptually articulating Zen philosophy.

SEP

Finally, a cautionary remark seems mandatory.

Plosone

Finally, we want to make a cautionary remark on diving safety.

BMC Ecology

Finally, a cautionary remark is necessary, i.e. a "large data set" can still be sparse and hence "large" should be interpreted with some caution.

BMC Medical Research Methodology

As a cautionary remark, several of the here presented results, in particular related to gender, are derived from analyses of rather small subgroups and need validation in additional patient cohorts.

Biology of Sex Differences

A cautionary remark should be made with respect to using lacZ as a reporter gene in muscle, as it has been shown that the level of lacZ protein is strongly influenced by muscle activity in adult muscle.

Biological Reviews

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

(A cautionary comment.

SEP

A few cautionary remarks should be made in relation to our findings.

BMC Psychiatry

What lies behind this vague but cautionary remark appears to be closely related to a set of issues already remarked, issues which are developed in the contemporary work of prominent logicians and semanticists.

SEP

Yet despite the near-proverbial status of the cautionary remark "Writing about music is like dancing about architecture"—generally attributed to Thelonious Monk the compulsion to pin down the magic of rock showed no sign of abating.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In the first section, we clarify the notion of a common property management regime and provide cautionary remarks about estimation methodologies commonly used.

Handbook of Environmental Economics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a cautionary remark" when delivering advice where potential negative consequences could arise if ignored.

Common error

Avoid using "a cautionary remark" excessively, as it can undermine your credibility or make you appear overly negative. Reserve it for situations where the risk is genuinely significant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a cautionary remark" functions as an introductory element to signal that a warning, advice, or qualification is about to be given. It sets the stage for the listener or reader to be aware of potential risks or limitations, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

25%

Encyclopedias

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a cautionary remark" is a grammatically correct phrase used to introduce a warning or advice, particularly in science, news, and encyclopedia contexts. Ludwig's analysis and examples highlight its use in formal and scientific communication. Although not very common, it serves to alert the audience to potential risks or limitations. Alternatives like "a warning statement" or "a word of caution" offer similar meanings but vary in formality and directness. The Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is usable and correct. When using this phrase, remember to clearly state the context of the warning to maximize its impact and avoid overuse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a warning statement

This alternative replaces "remark" with "statement", emphasizing the formal and direct nature of the warning.

a word of caution

This phrase uses a more concise and idiomatic expression to convey a similar sense of warning.

a caveat

This is a more formal and concise term for a warning or proviso.

an admonitory note

This alternative uses more formal and literary vocabulary to express a similar warning.

a preventive warning

This phrase emphasizes the intention to prevent potential negative outcomes.

a preemptive caution

Similar to preventive warning but focuses on acting before a problem arises.

a cautionary observation

Replaces "remark" with "observation", which highlights the basis of the caution on something observed.

a forewarning

This is a single-word alternative that directly implies a warning given in advance.

a note of concern

This alternative focuses on expressing worry or anxiety about a particular situation.

an alert

A brief term signifying a state of readiness or caution, typically in response to a threat or danger.

FAQs

How can I use "a cautionary remark" in a sentence?

You can use "a cautionary remark" to introduce a warning or advice, such as, "Before you invest, I have "a cautionary remark" about the market's volatility."

What is a good substitute for "a cautionary remark"?

Alternatives include "a warning statement", "a word of caution", or "a caveat", depending on the formality and context.

Is it better to use "cautionary note" or "cautionary remark"?

"Cautionary note" and "cautionary remark" are similar, but "cautionary note" might imply a brief warning, while "cautionary remark" suggests a more developed observation. Both are correct and depend on the context.

What is the impact of including "a cautionary remark" in a discussion?

Including "a cautionary remark" can highlight potential risks and encourage thoughtful consideration, helping to mitigate potential negative outcomes. It promotes cautious decision-making.