caution should be sounded

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "caution should be sounded" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that a warning or alert is necessary regarding a particular situation or issue. Example: "In light of the recent developments, caution should be sounded about the potential risks involved."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

A note of caution should be sounded, however.

The Guardian

They are a different proposition now but a note of caution should be sounded – all of a sudden expectations have changed.

The Guardian - Sport

A note of caution should be sounded with regard to the interpretation of the data relating to exsmokers as the studies were not always consistent or clear with regard to the time since stopping smoking and the level of smoking that had previously been usual.

BMC Geriatrics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

A final cautionary note should be sounded.

The New York Times

Caution should be taken to ensure that there are "checks and balances" and that you are using sound accounting principles when using this method of evaluation.

WikiHow

Caution should be their compass.

The New York Times

But caution should be the watchword.

Independent

Some caution should be applied in looking at the results.

The New York Times

If treated as primary target, caution should be exercised.

Research in Developmental Disabilities

However, more caution should be made in generalizing the results.

International Journal of Corporate Social Responsibility

A specific caution should be undertaken regarding catheter related complications.

Annals of Intensive Care

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "caution should be sounded" when you want to formally introduce a warning, especially in situations where overlooking potential problems could have significant consequences.

Common error

Avoid overuse of passive constructions like "caution should be sounded" in informal writing. Direct and active voice alternatives (e.g., "we must warn you") are often clearer and more engaging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "caution should be sounded" functions as an introductory warning, signaling the need for vigilance or careful consideration. As Ludwig AI explains, it indicates that a warning or alert is necessary regarding a particular situation or issue.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

58%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "caution should be sounded" serves as a formal way to introduce a warning or alert. It is grammatically correct and, according to Ludwig AI, usable in written English. Although relatively rare, it appears predominantly in news and scientific contexts, suggesting a neutral to formal register. To reiterate, the phrase is well suited for scenarios where a potential problem needs to be highlighted, ensuring that caution is exercised. While more direct alternatives exist, this phrase provides a level of formality suitable for professional discourse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a note of warning should be issued

Replaces "caution" with "warning" and "sounded" with "issued" maintaining a formal tone.

a word of caution is necessary

A slightly more direct and less idiomatic way to express the need for caution.

a warning must be given

Replaces "caution" with "warning" and uses a stronger verb "must be given" which implies necessity.

an alert needs to be raised

Substitutes "caution" with "alert" and uses "needs to be raised" to convey a sense of urgency.

it is crucial to warn

Highlights the importance of giving a warning about something.

heed must be paid

A more formal and emphatic way of saying attention should be given to a potential problem.

a red flag should be raised

Uses a metaphor to suggest a potential danger or problem that needs attention.

attention should be drawn

Indicates a need to focus on something important. Not specifically a warning, but close in meaning.

we must raise an alarm

More urgent and direct, implying immediate danger or concern.

let us call for vigilance

A call to action for watchfulness and alertness, often used in more formal contexts.

FAQs

How can I use "caution should be sounded" in a sentence?

You can use "caution should be sounded" to introduce a warning or alert, such as, "In light of the new data, "caution should be sounded" regarding the experimental results."

What does "caution should be sounded" mean?

The phrase "caution should be sounded" means that a warning or alert is necessary. It suggests that potential risks or problems should be considered carefully.

Are there more formal or informal alternatives to "caution should be sounded"?

Yes, more formal alternatives include "a note of warning should be issued", while an informal alternative could be "we need to be careful".

Is "caution should be sounded" the same as "a warning should be given"?

While similar, "caution should be sounded" carries a slightly more formal tone than "a warning should be given". The latter is more direct, while the former is often used to introduce a more elaborate explanation.