a cautionary word

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a cautionary word" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to provide a warning or advice about a particular situation or topic. Example: "Before we proceed with the project, I have a cautionary word regarding the potential risks involved."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

But first, a cautionary word.

The Guardian - Books

We will use the same tool of peaceful resistance, the loud voice and the brave chest," he said, offering a cautionary word to the military rulers.

The New York Times

Graham offers a cautionary word for similarly cash-strapped families: "I would tell anyone else thinking about taking out a payday loan not to.

The Guardian - Business

John Challenger, the chief executive of the outplacement firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas, offered a cautionary word to the wishful thinkers who insist that prosperity is just around the corner.

The New York Times

But a cautionary word before upping the ante – launching into some big rides without taking heed of a few simple rules may well leaving you struggling at the roadside.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It was even deemed worthy of immortalisation "in the club style" in an episode of Vic Reeves and Bob Mortimer's Shooting Stars, leading to a brilliant cameo from Collins himself involving an exploding amplifier and a cautionary word about the folly of not getting a guarantee on expensive Christmas gifts.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Then he offered a final cautionary word to the not-quite-so rich, but still-closer-to-New York county to the west.

The New York Times

Do you have any cautionary words for women and men who want to bring the world of "Fifty Shades" into their bedrooms?

Huffington Post

That single cautionary word — PRUDENTIAL — beaconed from the crest of a skyscraper.

The New York Times - Magazine

Despite that cautionary word, this very month the Pentagon has moved to establish a new Cybercommand that won't shy away from either the word "unilateral" or "dominance".

Huffington Post

These were the cautionary words of an experienced lecturer shortly before I started teaching English language and media studies at my local FE college.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When introducing "a cautionary word", clearly state the potential risk or negative consequence you are warning against.

Common error

Avoid simply stating "a cautionary word" without elaborating on the actual caution. Provide details and context to make the warning meaningful and actionable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a cautionary word" functions as an introductory element to signal an impending warning or advice. It serves to alert the audience to potential risks or negative consequences associated with a particular action or situation. Ludwig AI confirms its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"A cautionary word" is a phrase used to introduce a warning or piece of advice, signaling potential risks or negative consequences. Ludwig AI confirms that it's grammatically correct and usable in various contexts, with usage patterns showing it's most common in news and media. While alternatives like "a word of warning" or "a note of caution" exist, the phrase serves as a useful tool for alerting an audience to important considerations before they act.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A word of warning

Emphasizes the warning aspect more directly than "a cautionary word".

A note of caution

Highlights the element of prudence and careful consideration.

A warning

A shorter and more direct way to express the same concept.

A word to the wise

An idiomatic expression suggesting that the listener should heed the advice.

A preliminary warning

Highlights that the warning is given in advance.

Some advice

Offers a more general suggestion or recommendation.

Heed this warning

A more forceful way to urge someone to pay attention to a warning.

A piece of advice

Similar to 'some advice' but more specific.

A caveat

Introduces a qualification or condition.

Take note

A milder suggestion to pay attention to important information.

FAQs

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

You can use "a cautionary word" to introduce a warning or advice, such as: "Before you invest, "a cautionary word": research the company thoroughly."

What is a more formal alternative to "a cautionary word"?

For a more formal tone, consider using "a note of caution" or "a preliminary warning" to introduce important considerations.

Is it always necessary to use "a cautionary word" before giving advice?

No, it's not always necessary. Use ""a cautionary word"" when the advice is specifically intended to prevent a negative outcome or highlight a risk. Simple advice might not need such an introduction.

What is the difference between "a cautionary word" and "a word of warning"?

While similar, ""a cautionary word"" suggests a slightly more prudent and thoughtful warning, whereas "a word of warning" can be more direct and urgent.