a note of warning

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a note of warning" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to alert someone about a potential issue or caution them regarding a situation. Example: "Before you proceed with the project, I want to give you a note of warning about the tight deadlines we are facing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

However, he sounded a note of warning about Virgin's plans.

The Guardian

He is also, quite presciently, keen to strike a note of warning about inflation.

The Guardian - Books

And it's true a note of warning rings through his work, about the violence men know they can - do - inflict.

The Guardian - Books

Lewis might also take a note of warning from the Yankees' first-round playoff exit last week.

The New York Times - Sports

Memories, My Dear," by Debra A. Klein (June 9): Just a note of warning to those who collect match books.

The New York Times - Travel

Students have apparently been terrified by rumors of bloodsuckers among them, prompting the school's headmaster to send a note of warning to parents and faculty.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

Other teachers sound a similar note of warning.

The Guardian

But in yesterday's so-called beauty contest in the Golden State, there was a small note of warning.

The New York Times

He has injected into the conversation an important note of warning while spurring talk about solutions to deep-seated problems.

Huffington Post

The blog's student founders were persuaded to add a note of caution, warning participants that their identities could be discovered.

The New York Times - Tech

One taskforce member, Brian Dow, director of external affairs at Rethink Mental Illness, struck a note of caution, warning that "even the best of reports quickly gather dust on shelves".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a note of warning", ensure the context clearly explains what the potential danger or problem is. Be specific rather than vague to maximize the warning's effectiveness.

Common error

While appropriate in news and formal writing, avoid using "a note of warning" excessively in casual conversation. Opt for more direct and simpler warnings in informal settings to avoid sounding overly dramatic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a note of warning" functions as a noun phrase acting as an anticipatory alert. It is typically used to introduce or emphasize a potential risk, danger, or problem. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a note of warning" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase that serves to introduce or emphasize potential risks or problems. While Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, it is most frequently encountered in News & Media contexts. When using "a note of warning", it is advisable to clearly articulate the nature of the potential danger to maximize its impact and avoid overuse in informal contexts where more direct language may be more appropriate. Consider related alternatives like "a word of caution" or "a cautionary message" depending on the specific context and desired level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a forewarning

A warning given in advance of an event.

a cautionary message

Emphasizes the message itself as being cautious, rather than the act of giving a warning.

a word of caution

Focuses on offering advice to be careful; slightly less formal.

an advance notice

Highlights the element of forewarning or early notification of a potential problem.

an alert

A brief announcement of an issue.

a red flag

Indicates something suspicious or problematic.

a premonitory sign

Suggests an omen or indication that something negative might occur.

a signal of danger

Highlights the presence of risk.

an alarm bell

An indication of something dangerous or bad is happening.

a cautionary tale

Implies sharing a story or anecdote that serves as a warning.

FAQs

How can I use "a note of warning" in a sentence?

You can use "a note of warning" to introduce caution or alert someone to a potential problem. For example, "The report concluded with "a note of warning" about potential budget overruns".

What's the difference between "a note of warning" and "a word of caution"?

"A note of warning" often implies a more formal or written communication, while "a word of caution" can be used in both formal and informal settings to offer gentle advice or warning.

What can I say instead of ""a note of warning"" in an email?

Depending on the context, you could use "a cautionary message", "an alert", or simply state your concern directly. For instance, "Please be aware of..." or "It's important to consider...".

Is it always necessary to provide ""a note of warning"" when pointing out potential issues?

While not always necessary, providing ""a note of warning"" is helpful when the issue is significant or could have serious consequences. It helps to frame the information as something requiring attention.