a forewarning

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a forewarning" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to alert someone about a potential danger or issue before it occurs. Example: "I want to give you a forewarning about the upcoming storm; it might cause significant disruptions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

(If you're not interested, consider this a forewarning).

The New York Times

Still, Nicholas recognized that this year provided a forewarning.

The Washington Post

Here is a forewarning: you might not like me.

The Guardian

Mexicans got a forewarning of the possible effect this week.

The New York Times

"A forewarning of this attack allowed everyone to act proactively for a change.

The New York Times - Tech

(A forewarning: though materials are readily available to researchers, appointments are required).

The Guardian - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

With a little forewarning, we might have whisked our mixed containers under shelter.

The New York Times

There had been a graphic forewarning with Dilhara Fernando's first eventful over for Worcestershire.

The Guardian - Sport

Domingo & Co. did have a little forewarning that this opera had its problems after the bad buzz (sorry) following its world premiere on July 2nd at Paris' Theatre du Chatelet.

Huffington Post

Casting a Medusa-strength side-eye at US shortlists each year may be tiresome but it is warranted, and should serve as a steely forewarning to those optimistic for the UK picking up the pace.

Vice

Although pain is associated with unpleasant sensations, it also plays a positive forewarning and protective role.

BioMed Research International

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a forewarning", ensure that you follow up with specific details or actionable advice to make the warning effective. Avoid vague statements that could cause unnecessary alarm.

Common error

Avoid starting every cautionary statement with "a forewarning". Overuse can diminish its impact and make your writing sound repetitive. Instead, vary your language with alternatives like "an advance warning" or "a cautionary note".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a forewarning" functions primarily as a noun phrase that introduces an alert or cautionary message. It serves to notify an audience about potential future events, often carrying negative implications. Ludwig provides examples where this phrase sets the stage for forthcoming challenges or issues.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

31%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a forewarning" is a commonly used and grammatically correct noun phrase that serves to alert an audience about potential future challenges or negative outcomes. According to Ludwig, the phrase is most frequently found in news and media contexts, indicating its broad applicability in conveying preemptive cautions. It’s important to follow up with specific details and actionable advice when issuing "a forewarning", and overuse should be avoided by diversifying language with alternatives such as "an advance warning" or "an early alert". Ludwig AI confirms the appropriateness of this phrase in written English, highlighting its role in setting a tone of preparedness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an advance warning

Emphasizes the 'advance' aspect of the warning, highlighting that it comes before an event.

a preliminary warning

Stresses the 'preliminary' nature, suggesting it's an initial alert before further details.

an early alert

Focuses on the 'early' timing of the alert, indicating promptness.

a heads-up

More informal, implying a friendly and quick notification.

a premonition

Suggests a feeling or intuition about a future event, often negative.

an omen

Implies a sign or event regarded as a prophetic indication of future events.

a signal

Highlights the act of giving a sign in advance

a harbinger

Indicates something that foreshadows a future event.

a caution

Highlights the importance of being careful or mindful.

an alert

A general term for drawing attention to something dangerous or important.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "a forewarning" in a sentence?

Use "a forewarning" to introduce information that prepares the audience for potential negative outcomes. Follow it with specific details and actionable steps to enhance its impact. For example, "Here is "a forewarning": you might not like me."

What are some alternatives to using "a forewarning"?

You can use phrases like "advance warning", "early alert", or "heads-up" depending on the context and level of formality.

When is it appropriate to use "a forewarning" in writing?

It is appropriate when you need to prepare your audience for potentially negative or challenging information. This helps them anticipate and possibly mitigate adverse effects. Ensure the warning is followed by relevant details.

Is "a forewarning" the same as "warning"?

"A forewarning" implies that the warning is given in advance, allowing time to prepare or take action. A general "warning" might not necessarily imply the same degree of anticipation or preparation time.