provide a warning

USAGE SUMMARY

"provide a warning" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that someone should be warned about a potential danger or risk. For example, "The teacher decided to provide a warning to the students about the dangers of texting while driving."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

The trial could provide a warning that the congressman is hardly alone in treating public office as an avenue for the harvesting of privilege.

The New York Times

If foreign investors turned negative, or even if they invested less than they are now, a falling dollar would provide a warning of stock weakness.

The New York Times

On many new cars tire-pressure monitor systems can provide a warning, but many drivers who lack such a system ignore the need for regular pressure checks.

The New York Times

4) In answer to environmentalist groups, there is no viable data on which to base the whole concept of the "unbearable" hum of the elevator; anyway it would provide a warning to migrating birds.

The New Yorker

The "Left Behind" books apparently provide a warning to Jews like me (and others who are not "born again" Christians) that we will suffer in the future for our failure to convert.

The New York Times

The letter from Mr. Schmidt to CBS included requests that the network omit the more graphic scenes from the tape and provide a warning to viewers before the special is shown.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

It also provided a warning.

The New Yorker

It provides a warning.

The Guardian

History provides a warning to Day.

The Guardian - Sport

Mr Sarraj provides a warning: "The people's anger is now dormant.

The Economist

At the time the two economies appeared to be impressive, there was one indication that could have provided a warning.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "provide a warning", ensure the context clearly indicates what the warning is about and who it is intended for. Specificity enhances the warning's effectiveness.

Common error

Avoid using the passive voice when it diminishes the impact of the warning. Instead of "A warning was provided", use "They provided a warning" to clarify who is issuing the warning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "provide a warning" functions primarily as a verb phrase where "provide" acts as the verb and "a warning" is the direct object. It indicates the action of giving or supplying a cautionary notice. As Ludwig AI underlines, the phrase is correct and it's a valid way to warn about danger.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "provide a warning" is a grammatically sound phrase used to convey the act of alerting someone to a potential danger or risk. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. While not extremely common, its consistent usage across news, science, and wiki sources makes it a reliable choice. When using this phrase, ensure clarity about the subject of the warning and the intended audience. Alternatives like "issue an alert" or "forewarn someone" can be used for variety, but maintaining specificity is key to an effective warning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

forewarn someone

A concise way of saying to warn someone in advance.

alert someone to danger

Directly states the purpose of the warning: to make someone aware of danger.

offer an alert

Similar to "provide a warning" but emphasizes the act of offering help or information.

issue an alert

Emphasizes the formal act of distributing a warning or notification.

send an advisory

Focuses on the act of sending out advice or information related to potential risks.

give notification

Focuses on the act of formally informing someone of something important.

give advance notice

Highlights the aspect of providing a warning before something happens.

furnish a caution

A more formal way of saying to give a warning, often used in legal or official contexts.

sound the alarm

More dramatic, suggesting a need for immediate attention to a danger.

extend an admonition

Implies a gentle or friendly warning, often used to correct behavior.

FAQs

How can I use "provide a warning" in a sentence?

You can use "provide a warning" to indicate that someone is alerting others to a potential danger or risk. For example, "The weather service will provide a warning about the approaching storm".

What are some alternatives to "provide a warning"?

Some alternatives include "issue an alert", "give notification", or "forewarn someone", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "give a warning" or "provide a warning"?

Both "give a warning" and "provide a warning" are grammatically correct and have similar meanings. The choice between them often comes down to personal preference or the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "provide a warning" in writing?

"Provide a warning" is appropriate in situations where you want to emphasize the act of offering or supplying a warning to prevent potential harm or danger. It's suitable for both formal and informal contexts.