beware

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "beware" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express caution or a warning against something. Example: "Beware of the slippery steps."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But beware.

The New York Times

Perhaps they should beware of what they wish for.

The Economist

But Cameron's political opponents need to beware.

The Guardian

So beware of where a repeat scenario might lead in education.

The Guardian

Also try the aubergine stuffed with peppery minced pork (but beware of the chilli kick).

The Guardian - Travel

Opposing defences and keepers should beware for the rest of the campaign.

The Guardian - Sport

But No 10 should beware of attacks on the Beeb and the TUC.

The Guardian

Students are being warned to beware of scams involving privately rented property, following research by Shelter showing that up to 1 million people could have fallen victim to "landlord scams" in the past three years.

The Guardian - Money

Of veterans contemplating pursuing higher education, Petraues asks one thing: to do your due diligence and to heed the simple advice of "buyer beware" when choosing their school.

The Guardian - Money

At a glance, the poem's fable-like arrangement makes it seem a simple instructive tale: beware winter.

The Guardian - Books

Women tend to outnumber men, but beware the single-sex group.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "beware" to signal a potential danger or negative consequence. It's more impactful than simply advising caution.

Common error

Avoid using "beware" in casual conversation. Its formal tone can sound unnatural in informal settings; opt for alternatives like "watch out" or "be careful".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "beware" is as an intransitive verb used to express a warning or caution. It is often used to alert someone to potential danger or negative consequences. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and frequent usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

86%

Formal & Business

7%

Science

7%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "beware" functions as a verb used to issue warnings or cautions. Ludwig AI confirms that its usage is correct and very common, particularly within News & Media contexts. While grammatically sound, "beware" carries a formal tone, making it less suitable for casual conversation. Alternatives such as "be cautious", "watch out", and "be careful" can be used depending on context. Remember, using "beware" effectively involves understanding its specific implications and formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

watch out

A more immediate and informal warning of potential danger.

look out

Similar to "watch out", a quick warning of immediate danger.

be cautious

Emphasizes the need for careful action or consideration; less forceful than "beware".

be careful

General advice to avoid harm or mistakes; less specific than "beware".

mind out

An informal warning, common in British English, similar to "watch out".

take heed

Suggests paying attention to a warning or advice; more formal and literary.

keep an eye out

Suggests watching carefully for something specific that may appear.

be on guard

Implies a state of readiness against potential threats or deception.

exercise caution

A formal way of advising someone to be careful and prudent.

pay attention

Highlights the need to focus and be aware of surroundings or information.

FAQs

How can I use "beware" in a sentence?

Use "beware" to caution someone about a potential danger or negative consequence. For example, "Beware of scams" or "Beware the fine print".

What are some alternatives to using "beware"?

Instead of "beware", you can use phrases like "be cautious", "watch out", or "be careful" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "beware"?

"Beware" is most appropriate in formal writing or when giving a serious warning. It's less common in casual conversation.

What's the difference between "beware" and "be careful"?

"Beware" is a stronger warning, implying a significant risk or danger. "Be careful" is a more general caution.