big caveat

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "big caveat" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to highlight an important limitation or warning regarding a statement or situation. Example: "The new software is highly efficient, but there is a big caveat: it requires a significant amount of training to use effectively."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Here's the first big caveat.

The Guardian

There is one big caveat.

The New York Times

One big caveat: use sturdy, solid belts.

The New York Times

The number comes with a big caveat.

The Economist

That power comes with one big caveat.

The New York Times - Sports

Although there's a big caveat here.

The Washington Post

There's one big caveat: the weather is unpredictable in Vermont in March.

The New York Times

The big caveat here is that most Americans still don't understand what the law does.

The New York Times

The government guarantees the conforming loans, but with one big caveat.

The New York Times

But the one big caveat in all the calculations is private schooling.

The New York Times

One big caveat: It doesn't work on the Apple iPhone offered through AT&T.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "big caveat" to clearly signal a significant limitation or potential problem to your audience, ensuring they are fully aware of the conditions affecting your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "big caveat" when a minor adjustment or suggestion is more appropriate. Ensure the limitation truly warrants emphasis, as overuse can diminish the impact of the phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "big caveat" functions as an interjection or introductory phrase to highlight a significant limitation, condition, or warning that affects the preceding statement. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable status.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "big caveat" is a commonly used and grammatically sound way to introduce a significant limitation or warning. Ludwig AI analysis reveals it's most frequently found in news and media contexts, indicating its suitability for a neutral to professional tone. When using "big caveat", ensure it genuinely signals a substantial issue that could impact understanding or decision-making. Alternatives such as "major reservation" or "significant condition" may be suitable for more formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

major reservation

Focuses on the act of withholding complete approval or acceptance.

significant condition

Emphasizes the importance of a requirement that must be met.

important qualification

Highlights an addition or modification that limits the scope.

notable exception

Draws attention to a case that does not conform to the general rule.

key limitation

Points out a crucial restriction or weakness.

considerable constraint

Indicates a substantial restriction or limitation.

major stumbling block

Suggests a significant obstacle that hinders progress.

substantial drawback

Emphasizes a significant disadvantage or negative aspect.

primary pitfall

Identifies a main, often hidden, danger or difficulty.

critical snag

Highlights a crucial problem that needs to be resolved.

FAQs

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

You can use "big caveat" to introduce a significant limitation or warning. For example, "The new software is efficient, but there's a "big caveat": it requires extensive training."

What are some alternatives to "big caveat"?

Alternatives include "major reservation", "significant condition", or "important qualification" depending on the specific context.

Is "big caveat" formal or informal?

"Big caveat" leans towards a neutral register, suitable for both professional and news contexts. For very formal settings, consider alternatives like "significant reservation".

What's the difference between "big caveat" and "minor issue"?

"Big caveat" indicates a substantial problem or limitation that could significantly impact the outcome. In contrast, "minor issue" suggests a small, easily manageable problem.