add a caveat

USAGE SUMMARY

"add a caveat" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this expression to indicate that you are adding a warning or caution to something you are saying. For example: "I think this policy will have a positive effect, but I would add a caveat about its implementation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

I add a caveat.

Cornell University

But he was careful to add a caveat.

The New York Times

The doomsayers are quick to add a caveat: Ivan might not turn out to be The One.

The Washington Post

Of course, you have to add a caveat or two, as is the way with these things.

The Guardian - Sport

Mr. Breaux hastened to add a caveat: "Trent promised me he'd never give speeches at any more birthday parties".

The New York Times

If it declares a Level 6 pandemic, Dr. Fukuda said, it may add a caveat indicating that the virus is not very lethal.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

But Smoltz added a caveat.

The New York Times

But he added a caveat.

The New York Times

But then he added a caveat.

The New York Times - Magazine

But the plan has added a caveat.

The New York Times

But Dr. Musahl added a caveat.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "add a caveat" when you want to introduce a limiting condition or warning to a statement, ensuring the audience understands potential exceptions or qualifications to the main point.

Common error

Avoid excessively using caveats in your writing. Too many qualifications can weaken your argument and make your message unclear. Use caveats sparingly and only when genuinely necessary to provide a balanced and accurate perspective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "add a caveat" functions as a verb phrase used to indicate the act of introducing a qualification or condition to a statement. Ludwig AI examples show it's commonly used to temper or limit the scope of a preceding assertion.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "add a caveat" is a commonly used phrase to introduce a qualification or limitation to a statement. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, especially in news media, scientific publications, and academic writing. When writing, remember that while using caveats is crucial for accuracy, too many caveats can weaken your argument. It's also important to note that alternatives like "include a qualification" or "provide a disclaimer" can be used to convey similar meanings with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Include a qualification

This alternative emphasizes the act of including a specific condition or requirement.

Attach a condition

This alternative highlights the act of attaching a specific requirement to something.

Provide a disclaimer

This is a legal term for providing an explicit denial of responsibility or right that can be used to limit liability.

Insert a provision

This alternative emphasizes the act of inserting a specific term or condition.

Offer a reservation

This emphasizes expressing doubts or objections, or holding something back.

State a limitation

This emphasizes the act of stating a restriction or boundary.

Specify a condition

This is the act of clearly stating the terms that must be met.

Append a rider

This suggests adding an extra clause or amendment, often to a document or agreement.

Incorporate an exception

This emphasizes the inclusion of a specific case where a rule does not apply.

Emphasize a constraint

This highlights stressing the limitations or restrictions.

FAQs

How can I use "add a caveat" in a sentence?

You can use "add a caveat" when you want to introduce a limiting condition or warning to a statement. For example, "I agree with the proposal, but I'd like to "add a caveat" about the implementation timeline".

What does "add a caveat" mean?

"Add a caveat" means to include a warning or qualification to something you are saying or writing. It's used to express a limitation or condition that should be considered.

What are some alternatives to "add a caveat"?

Alternatives to "add a caveat" include "include a qualification", "attach a condition", or "provide a disclaimer", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to "add a caveat" or "offer a caveat"?

Both "add a caveat" and "offer a caveat" are acceptable, but "add a caveat" is more common. "Offer a caveat" might imply a more tentative or optional qualification, while "add a caveat" suggests a necessary inclusion.