a stern reminder

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a stern reminder" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when emphasizing the seriousness or importance of a message or warning. Example: "The teacher gave us a stern reminder about the importance of submitting our assignments on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

Every invitation came with a stern reminder: "Please don't bring a guest".

The New York Times

Security briefings for arriving troops include a stern reminder to never walk or travel alone.

The New York Times

Does he deserve any discipline other than a stern reminder from someone that it's not acceptable?

The Guardian - Sport

On the church door, signs offered a stern reminder: "No cameras & no recording devices allowed in the building".

The New Yorker

In the end, she avoids being remanded in custody, but gets a stern reminder of how lucky she's been.

The Guardian

The hype around Seton Hall has been replaced by reality, a stern reminder that a team with a bundle of talent cannot win without leadership and direction.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

But at weekends, the sheet-folding, bed-making service instantly resets any sense of cohabitation and intimacy to zero a stern reminder that you're in a hotel, not a home.

The Economist

When the young Joan gets a scholarship to Cambridge, the headmistress announces the news to the school with the stern reminder that "however pleased we are for Joan, the true calling of a woman's life is to be a wife and mother".

The Guardian - Books

He also wrote "What Is a Designer," which combined stern reminders of the importance of sound craftsmanship and designers' moral responsibilities and with stinging rebukes to those that succumbed to commercial pressure to produce "satisfactions on the cheap".

The New York Times - Arts

Mr. Banks has kept a relatively low profile; since becoming the department's top chief, his most well-known policy initiative has been to focus on cleaning up the appearance of police officers with stern reminders about the dress code.

The New York Times

Citing "the names that are being kicked about in the US media"—including Trump's selection of Myron Ebell to oversee the EPA transition team Sachs expounds a stern but necessary reminder of the battle ahead.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a stern reminder" when you want to emphasize the importance of adhering to rules, guidelines, or expected behavior. It's effective for setting a serious tone and preventing potential issues.

Common error

Avoid using "a stern reminder" in casual conversations or informal writing. It can sound overly formal or severe, potentially creating an unintended negative impression. Instead, opt for a more relaxed phrasing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a stern reminder" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject complement or object of a verb. It's used to describe something that serves to remind someone of an important rule, obligation, or potential consequence, as validated by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a stern reminder" is a commonly used phrase that serves as a noun phrase. It highlights and emphasizes the importance of rules, guidelines, and expected behavior. While grammatically correct and usable in many contexts, according to Ludwig, its overuse or application in casual settings can seem overly formal. Its frequent occurrence in "News & Media" showcases its function to clearly convey a message that must be taken seriously. When writing with "a stern reminder", be mindful of your audience and the overall tone you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a serious warning

Focuses on the warning aspect, emphasizing gravity.

a firm caution

Emphasizes the decisiveness and clarity of the warning.

a strong admonition

Implies a formal or authoritative rebuke.

a grave warning

Highlights the potential danger or consequences.

a severe caution

Conveys the intensity and potential repercussions.

a harsh warning

Suggests a direct and possibly unpleasant warning.

a pointed caution

Highlights the targeted and specific nature of the warning.

a decisive warning

Implies a clear and unambiguous warning.

a forceful caution

Emphasizes the strength and impact of the warning.

an explicit warning

Highlights the clarity and lack of ambiguity in the warning.

FAQs

How can I use "a stern reminder" in a sentence?

You can use "a stern reminder" to introduce a rule or expectation, as in, "The sign served as "a stern reminder" that no cameras were allowed." It emphasizes the importance of the message.

What are some alternatives to "a stern reminder"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a serious warning", "a firm caution", or "a strong admonition", depending on the level of formality and severity you wish to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "a stern reminder"?

It's appropriate in situations where there's a need to enforce compliance or prevent potential misbehavior. Think formal settings, official notices, or situations with significant consequences if ignored.

What's the difference between "a stern reminder" and "a gentle suggestion"?

"A stern reminder" implies a degree of authority and a serious expectation of compliance, while "a gentle suggestion" is a more casual and less forceful way of offering advice. Use "a stern reminder" when adherence is crucial.