cautioned that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cautioned that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when someone is warning or advising about a potential issue or concern. Example: "The expert cautioned that the new policy could lead to unintended consequences."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He cautioned that dangers remain.

The New York Times

Still, he cautioned that challenges remained.

The New York Times

Mr. Heesen cautioned that "one I.P.O.

The New York Times - Tech

But officials in Brussels cautioned that big doubts remained.

The New York Times

Officials in Brussels cautioned that big doubts remained.

The New York Times

But she cautioned that change will take years.

Science Magazine

But he cautioned that security will increase around New York.

Vice

Sutherland cautioned that injectable hydromorphone does not work for everyone.

Vice

Still, analysts cautioned that Caterpillar faced challenges.

The New York Times

But they cautioned that obstacles remained.

The New York Times

Analysts cautioned that further declines were possible.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "cautioned that" when you want to introduce a note of warning or potential risk associated with a statement or action. It's useful for softening strong warnings or delivering news that requires careful consideration.

Common error

Avoid starting multiple consecutive sentences with "cautioned that", as this can make your writing sound repetitive and monotonous. Vary your sentence structure by using synonyms like "warned", "advised", or "noted" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

Cautioned that functions as a reporting verb introducing a subordinate clause. It signals that someone has issued a warning or qualification about a statement or situation. Ludwig provides numerous examples where it connects an authority figure's warning with a specific potential outcome, demonstrating its role in conveying careful consideration.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cautioned that" is a versatile phrase for introducing warnings or qualifications in a variety of contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and frequently used, especially in news, academic, and scientific writing. To enhance your writing, remember to use it judiciously to avoid monotony, and consider synonyms like "warned" or "advised" for variety. This phrase effectively balances optimism with prudence, providing readers with a more nuanced understanding of potential outcomes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

warned that

Uses a more direct term for expressing potential danger or negative consequences.

advised that

Suggests a gentler form of guidance, focusing on recommendations rather than potential risks.

expressed concern that

Explicitly states worry or unease about a potential issue.

suggested that

Introduces an idea or possibility with less emphasis on a potential negative outcome.

alerted to the possibility that

Emphasizes the act of bringing awareness to a potential situation.

pointed out that

Highlights a specific fact or detail relevant to the situation, often implying a need for caution.

reminded that

Brings back a previously known fact that should be considered

noted that

Brings attention to a particular observation, which may or may not carry a sense of warning.

stipulated that

Sets a condition or requirement that must be met.

clarified that

Ensures there's a clear understanding, sometimes to preemptively address possible misunderstandings.

FAQs

How to use "cautioned that" in a sentence?

Use "cautioned that" to introduce a warning or advice. For example: "The doctor "cautioned that" the medication might have side effects." Ensure the warning is relevant to the main point.

What can I say instead of "cautioned that"?

You can use alternatives like "warned that", "advised that", or "suggested that" depending on the context. These provide a similar nuance of warning or advice.

When is it appropriate to use "cautioned that"?

It's appropriate when you want to gently introduce a potential problem or risk without alarming the reader. Use it when a balanced perspective is needed.

Which is correct, "cautioned that" or "cautioned of"?

"Cautioned that" is generally used when followed by a clause, as in "He "cautioned that" the road was icy." "Cautioned of" is used to warn someone about something specific, as in "He was cautioned of the dangers ahead."