a grave caution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a grave caution" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a serious warning or advice regarding a particular situation or action. Example: "The report issued a grave caution about the potential risks associated with the new policy."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Criminalising even the most unpalatable, illiberal and offensive speech should be approached with grave caution in a democracy.

The Guardian - Opinion

I have gone through it twice now and am currently walking with grave caution towards my third time.

Huffington Post

The findings offer a striking counterpoint to the narrative lately offered by the banks themselves -- that rising regulatory pressures, coupled with a slow economy and a general atmosphere of investor caution, pose a grave threat to banks' bottom lines.

Huffington Post

This is a grave error.

Forbes

This is a grave matter".

The New York Times

That's not a grave".

The New Yorker

"A travesty, a grave crime," he splutters.

The Economist

A grave crime called for grave punishment..

The Guardian

Not a grave.

The New Yorker

A distraught woman points at a grave.

The Guardian - Arts

"A grave injustice has been done.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a grave caution" when you want to emphasize the seriousness of a potential risk or the need for careful consideration. For instance, "The doctor issued a grave caution about the side effects of the medication."

Common error

While "a grave caution" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal or dramatic in casual conversation. Opt for simpler phrases like "be careful" or "pay attention" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a grave caution" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically used as the object of a verb such as issue, express, or provide. It denotes a significant warning or admonition. Based on Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and signals a serious warning or advice.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a grave caution" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to convey a serious warning or need for careful consideration. Although Ludwig AI confirms its validity, it's relatively uncommon and tends to be more appropriate in formal or professional contexts. Alternatives such as "serious warning" or "solemn caution" can be used depending on the desired level of formality. While its message is serious, be mindful of overuse in informal settings, where simpler language may be more fitting. Overall, understanding where and how to use "a grave caution" will result in precise and credible communications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

serious warning

Emphasizes the severity of the warning itself, omitting the element of carefulness.

stern warning

Similar to "serious warning" but suggests a more authoritative or formal tone.

solemn caution

Adds a sense of gravity and importance to the caution being given.

grave warning

Focuses on the severity of the potential consequences, making it slightly stronger.

deep concern

Shifts the focus from warning to expressing a significant level of worry or apprehension.

extreme care

Highlights the need for meticulousness and attention to detail, rather than a warning.

utmost prudence

Emphasizes the wisdom and carefulness required in a particular situation.

serious reservation

Indicates a significant doubt or objection, differing from a direct warning.

considerable apprehension

Focuses on the feeling of anxiety or unease about a future event or situation.

significant risk

Highlights the potential for negative outcomes, rather than the act of cautioning.

FAQs

How can I use "a grave caution" in a sentence?

You can use "a grave caution" to express serious warning or advice about potential risks. For example: "The report issued "a grave caution" regarding the environmental impact of the project."

What's a more formal way to say "a grave caution"?

A more formal alternative to "a grave caution" could be "stern warning" or "solemn caution", depending on the specific context. These phrases maintain the sense of seriousness while adding a layer of formality.

What can I say instead of "a grave caution" in informal writing?

In informal writing, you might prefer phrases like "be very careful" or "take extra care" to convey a similar meaning without sounding overly dramatic.

Is it always necessary to use "a grave caution" when expressing concern?

No, "a grave caution" is most appropriate when the situation warrants a high degree of seriousness or potential danger. Less critical situations may only require a simple "caution" or "warning".