please proceed with caution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "please proceed with caution" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you want to advise someone to be careful or to take care while doing something. Example: "As you enter the construction site, please proceed with caution to ensure your safety."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

If you have not yet made it through all twelve episodes of "Nooks & Cranny," Season 1, please proceed with caution.

The New Yorker

Please proceed with caution.

TechCrunch

However, these activities may result in socially awkward situations, so please proceed with caution.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Please proceed with the utmost care".

The New York Times

Please note that images on all of them can be slightly not safe for work, so proceed with caution when browsing.

The New York Times

Still, proceed with caution.

The New York Times

So proceed with caution.

The New York Times

Yellow, proceed with caution.

The New York Times - Tech

We must proceed with caution".

Independent

If not, proceed with caution.

The New York Times - Arts

Amber usually means proceed with caution.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "please proceed with caution", always specify the reason for caution to provide context and prevent misunderstandings. For example, "Please proceed with caution; the floor is slippery."

Common error

While "please proceed with caution" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal in casual settings. Opt for simpler alternatives like "be careful" or "watch out" in informal conversations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "please proceed with caution" functions as an imperative, specifically a polite directive or warning. It advises the listener or reader to act carefully and be mindful of potential risks or dangers. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's usable in contexts where careful action is required.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

22%

Science

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "please proceed with caution" is a grammatically sound and versatile phrase used to advise care and attentiveness, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. While appropriate across different contexts, it is especially common in News & Media, and Wiki environments. Alternatives like "exercise caution" or "be careful" can be used in less formal settings. Remember to specify the reason for caution to ensure clarity, and avoid overuse in casual conversations. With its origins in authoritative sources like The New York Times, it maintains a professional tone making it suitable for wide usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exercise caution

This alternative is more concise and direct, replacing the verb "proceed" with "exercise".

be careful

This is a simpler and more general way to advise caution, suitable for everyday situations.

take care

Similar to "be careful", this phrase emphasizes the need for attentiveness and consideration.

watch out

This alternative is more informal and emphasizes immediate danger or potential problems.

mind how you go

This is a more idiomatic expression, particularly common in British English, advising someone to be careful on their way.

be vigilant

This emphasizes alertness and watchfulness, particularly against potential threats.

tread carefully

This suggests a more deliberate and thoughtful approach, particularly in sensitive situations.

look out

This is a direct warning to be aware of surroundings and potential dangers.

use discretion

This suggests using good judgment and avoiding actions that could lead to negative consequences.

act prudently

This emphasizes acting with wisdom and foresight to avoid risks.

FAQs

How can I use "please proceed with caution" in a sentence?

You can use "please proceed with caution" to advise someone to be careful or take extra care when doing something. For example, "As you enter the construction site, "please proceed with caution" to ensure your safety."

What are some alternatives to "please proceed with caution"?

You can use alternatives such as "exercise caution", "be careful", or "take care" depending on the specific context and level of formality.

When is it appropriate to use "please proceed with caution"?

"Please proceed with caution" is appropriate when you want to formally advise someone to be careful due to a potential hazard or risk. It's suitable for situations where a degree of seriousness is warranted.

Is "proceed with caution" more or less formal than "be careful"?

"Proceed with caution" is generally more formal than "be careful". While both convey the same basic message, "proceed with caution" carries a more serious and professional tone.