only warning

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "only warning" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that a particular warning is the sole one being issued, often in contexts where further warnings will not be given. Example: "This is your only warning; if you continue to break the rules, further action will be taken."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

(No federal law prohibits the sale of mercury; only warning labels are required).

The New York Times - Magazine

"We are only warning against the risks of pre-emptive strikes as a doctrine.

The New York Times

Italian diplomats say the marines, who were acting as guards on the Italian-flagged merchant ship, fired only warning shots and did so in international waters.

The New York Times

The crossing had only warning lights, no gates, to protect drivers on the busy highway where the speed limit was 60 miles per hour.

The New York Times

Italian diplomats say the marines, who were acting as guards on the Italian-flagged merchant ship, fired only warning shots and did so in international waters, Mr. Bajaj writes.

The New York Times

"Senator Brown has spoken to his entire staff — including the individuals involved in this unacceptable behavior — and issued them their one and only warning that this type of conduct will not be tolerated".

The New Yorker

The Turkish military insists guards fired only warning shots and that the Syrians dispersed.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

The message isn't new, but it will be presented in a bigger, starker format — including images of tobacco's devastating effects — that should be harder to ignore than the tiny, text-only warning labels that have lost their punch.

The New York Times

The results from this study were consistent with findings from previous research comparing reactions to text-only warning labels in other countries [ 19– 219.

BMC Public Health

In young adults, the proposed labels had greater effects than text-only warning on fear-related reactions, smoking motivation, and discouragement with greater effect on nonsmokers than smokers.

BioMed Research International

Thrasher et al [ 27] have reported that cigarette packages whose warning labels contain prominent graphic imagery are more likely than text-only warning labels to promote smoking-related knowledge and smoking cessation.

Conflict and Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "only warning" when you want to emphasize that no further warnings will be given before action is taken. It clearly communicates the finality of the caution.

Common error

Avoid using "only warning" when you simply want to give helpful advice or a friendly suggestion. It carries a strong implication of potential negative consequences if ignored, which is not suitable for casual advice.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "only warning" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as a subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig shows it is frequently used to denote a singular, non-repeatable caution before action is taken.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

16%

Science

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "only warning" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase, though not extremely common. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It is primarily used in News & Media, Wiki, and Science contexts to indicate that a specific caution is the final one before action is taken. Alternatives like "final warning" or "last warning" can be used to convey a similar meaning. When using this phrase, ensure that the context aligns with the serious implication of potential negative consequences if the warning is ignored.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

final warning

Emphasizes the concluding nature of the warning, implying no further chances will be given.

last warning

Similar to "final warning", stressing that this is the ultimate caution before consequences follow.

sole warning

Highlights that this is the only instance of a warning being provided.

single warning

Underscores the uniqueness and isolation of this particular warning.

one and only warning

Reinforces the idea that no other warnings will be issued.

this is your notice

Shifts the tone to a more formal announcement of impending consequences.

consider yourself warned

A more direct and somewhat confrontational way of issuing a warning.

you've been cautioned

A passive way of indicating that a warning has been given.

be forewarned

Emphasizes the state of being warned before something happens.

take heed

A call to pay attention and consider the warning seriously.

FAQs

How is "only warning" used in a sentence?

You can use "only warning" to emphasize the finality of a caution, such as, "This is your "only warning"; further violations will result in suspension."

What are some alternatives to saying "only warning"?

Alternatives include "final warning", "last warning", or "sole warning", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "only warning" in a formal setting?

Yes, "only warning" can be used in formal settings, especially when communicating serious consequences. However, consider alternatives like "final notice" or "last caution" for a slightly softer tone.

What is the difference between "only warning" and "just a warning"?

"Only warning" implies that no further warnings will be given, while "just a warning" suggests it is a minor caution without immediate severe consequences. The former emphasizes finality, the latter emphasizes leniency.