a caveat that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a caveat that" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to introduce a condition or warning that modifies or qualifies the main statement of the sentence. Example: She agreed to lend me the money, with a caveat that I must pay her back within a month.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But then he offered a caveat that could work in Mrs. Clinton's favor.

The New York Times

One example is a caveat that appears on that 2007 IPCC chart.

The Guardian

For the Fed, there is a caveat that holds the key to understanding its pending decision.

The New York Times

He also added a caveat that echoed the sentiment of many in Nepal as the death toll soars.

The New York Times

Even when the U.S. ratifies treaties, the government often adds a caveat that excludes protection of some basic rights.

The New Yorker

He repeatedly reminded questioners that he always promised to support his party's nominee -- a caveat that made his endorsement sound more dutiful than heartfelt.

The New York Times

Dungy, 53, did not entirely close the door on returning, a caveat that is sure to ignite speculation each time an appealing job opens.

The New York Times - Sports

Let's make no mistake: a man saying "no homo" to qualify his feelings carries a caveat that is inherently homophobic and heterosexist.

The Guardian - Opinion

But then Ms. Molina added a caveat that bedevils all political strategists seeking to capitalize on the demographic boomlet: "Our issues are essentially all-American issues like education, housing and health care".

The New York Times

Of course, there is a caveat that might be considered in all this.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

But Marshal Fahim quickly entered a caveat -- that the Americans would guard Mr. Karzai only as long as it took them to train Afghans.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a caveat that", ensure the condition or limitation it introduces is clearly and concisely stated to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a caveat that" without providing a specific and understandable limitation. A vague caveat diminishes the credibility of your statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a caveat that" functions as a subordinator, introducing a dependent clause that provides a condition, limitation, or qualification to the main clause. It adds nuance and precision to a statement. Ludwig AI confirms that this structure is grammatically correct and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

28%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a caveat that" is a grammatically correct and frequently used construction to introduce a condition, limitation, or qualification to a statement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate for various contexts, particularly in news, science, and academic writing. When using this phrase, it’s essential to ensure the caveat is clear and specific to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives include “on the condition that” or “provided that”, depending on the desired nuance. Remember to integrate the phrase smoothly within your sentence for optimal clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on the condition that

States a clear and direct prerequisite for something to occur or be valid.

a qualification being that

Uses "qualification" instead of "caveat", focusing on the limiting or modifying aspect.

a limitation specifying that

Directly points out a restriction or boundary related to the preceding statement.

a condition being that

Replaces "caveat" with "condition" and restructures the sentence, emphasizing the conditional nature.

a stipulation stating that

Substitutes "caveat" with "stipulation", highlighting a more formal and explicit requirement.

a reservation indicating that

Emphasizes the act of reserving or holding back full agreement or acceptance.

a proviso mentioning that

Introduces a formal condition or stipulation, often found in legal or official documents.

an exception noting that

Highlights a specific instance where the general rule does not apply.

a disclaimer clarifying that

Emphasizes the intent to avoid misunderstanding or liability by specifying a limitation.

with the understanding that

Implies a mutual agreement or assumption that a certain condition is met.

FAQs

How do I properly use "a caveat that" in a sentence?

Use "a caveat that" to introduce a condition, limitation, or warning that qualifies a statement. For example, "I agree with the proposal, with "a caveat that" the budget must be carefully managed".

What are some alternatives to using "a caveat that"?

You can use alternatives like "on the condition that", "provided that", or "with the understanding that", depending on the context. For example, "We can proceed, on the condition that all parties agree".

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "a caveat that"?

While grammatically permissible, it's generally better to integrate "a caveat that" within the sentence to ensure clarity. Starting with a caveat can sometimes sound awkward.

What is the difference between "a caveat that" and "an exception that"?

"A caveat that" introduces a general condition or limitation, while "an exception that" specifies a particular case where a rule does not apply. For example, "The policy applies to all employees, with "a caveat that" management retains the right to make changes" versus "The policy applies to all employees, with "an exception that" senior executives are exempt".