a cautionary tale

USAGE SUMMARY

"a cautionary tale" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to a story that is meant to warn or teach a lesson about the potential consequences of a particular action. For example: "The classic story of the goose that laid the golden eggs is a cautionary tale about greed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This is a cautionary tale.

The New York Times

America provides a cautionary tale.

The Economist

It is a cautionary tale.

The Economist

Here is a cautionary tale.

The New York Times - Books

Here's a cautionary tale.

The Guardian - Books

More than a town — a cautionary tale.

The New York Times

Here, Venice provides a cautionary tale.

The Economist

"Chronicle" becomes a cautionary tale: power corrupts.

The New Yorker

But also, it's a cautionary tale.

Independent

There may be a cautionary tale there.

The Economist

So, is Japan a cautionary tale?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a cautionary tale" to introduce a narrative or example that illustrates the negative consequences of certain actions or decisions. It sets the stage for a lesson or warning.

Common error

Avoid using "a cautionary tale" in overly casual conversations. It is more suited to formal writing or when introducing a serious point.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a cautionary tale" functions as a noun phrase that introduces a narrative or example intended to serve as a warning. Ludwig AI confirms its role in highlighting potential negative consequences. For example, 'The story of Icarus is a cautionary tale about the perils of overconfidence'.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Reference

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"A cautionary tale" is a phrase used to introduce a narrative or example serving as a warning about potential negative consequences. Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically correct and widely used. Its primary function is to dissuade certain behaviors by illustrating risks. The phrase is most commonly found in news and media, academic, and formal business contexts. When using "a cautionary tale", it's best to reserve it for situations where a serious warning or lesson is intended. While suitable for professional or news settings, it's advisable to avoid overuse in casual conversations. Alternative phrases include "a warning example" or "an object lesson", providing flexibility in expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a cautionary example

Directly mirrors the original phrase, substituting 'tale' with 'example'.

a warning example

Focuses on the warning aspect with the exemplification.

an object lesson

Emphasizes the instructive nature of the example, often implying a negative outcome.

an instructive warning

Combines the idea of teaching with an advance notice of potential problems.

a lesson to be learned

Highlights the instructive element and the need for understanding.

a warning to heed

Focuses on the necessity of paying attention to the warning.

a prime example of what not to do

Clearly indicates an action to be avoided, emphasizing negative consequences.

a portent of danger

Stresses the potential for future harm or negative consequences.

a grim reminder

Stresses the unpleasant aspect of recalling past mistakes or dangers.

a story of potential pitfalls

Highlights narrative form with an emphasis on imminent risks.

FAQs

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

You can use "a cautionary tale" to introduce a story or example that serves as a warning. For example, "The story of Icarus is "a cautionary tale" about the dangers of hubris".

What's a good alternative to using "a cautionary tale"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "a warning example", "an object lesson", or "a lesson to be learned".

Is "a cautionary tale" formal or informal?

"A cautionary tale" is generally considered neutral to slightly formal. It's suitable for news articles, academic papers, and business reports, but can also be used in less formal settings when the topic warrants a serious tone.

What makes a story "a cautionary tale"?

A story becomes "a cautionary tale" when its primary purpose is to warn the audience about the potential negative outcomes of certain behaviors or decisions. It serves as a lesson, highlighting risks and consequences.