salutary reminder

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "salutary reminder" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe anything that serves as a reminder, typically showing the importance of following advice or rules, or prompting someone to take an action for their own benefit. For example, "The school principal's speech was a salutary reminder that students need to focus on their studies in order to achieve their goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

This was a salutary reminder of how badly they have failed to do so.

Independent

As with the works mocking Socialist Realism, their presence comes as a salutary reminder.

Independent

They may even have been a good thing: a salutary reminder of the risks.

The Economist

It's a salutary reminder of what a big deal the Lemonheads briefly were.

The Guardian - Music

That's a salutary reminder that this odd job of mine didn't always exist, and isn't inevitable.

The Guardian

"A salutary reminder just who is in control around here," he said of the conditions.

The New Yorker

Scotland's costly water is a salutary reminder of the cost of the country's love affair with state provision.

The Economist

THE collapse of Banco Espírito Santo is a salutary reminder that Europe's banking woes have not gone away.

The Economist

If nothing else, this week's setbacks are a salutary reminder that the country remains economically frail and politically fragile.

The Economist

A short walk through the West End of London today provides a salutary reminder of corporate mortality.

The Economist

Yet it is worth noting that Head On provides a salutary reminder of how uncool U2 once were.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "salutary reminder" when you want to emphasize the beneficial effect of a warning or cautionary event. It's not just a reminder, but one that improves understanding or behavior.

Common error

Avoid using "salutary reminder" in very informal conversations. Its somewhat formal tone is better suited for written communication, presentations, or speeches.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "salutary reminder" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "salutary" modifies the noun "reminder". It serves to emphasize the positive or beneficial impact of a reminder, suggesting that it serves not only as a memory jog but also as a constructive lesson or warning. According to Ludwig AI, it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "salutary reminder" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, employed to underscore the advantageous nature of a reminder, often in the context of lessons learned from warnings or cautionary experiences. Its presence is predominantly observed in News & Media, indicative of its suitability for conveying information with a blend of clarity and authority. While versatile, it’s most effective when used to highlight the positive impact of the reminder, encouraging reflection and informed decision-making.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

wake-up call

Suggests a sudden realization of a problem or danger, often implying a need for immediate action.

cautionary tale

Presents a narrative emphasizing the risks and consequences of certain actions.

sobering lesson

Highlights the serious nature of the lesson learned, implying a change in perspective.

note of caution

Introduces an element of warning or restraint, advising careful consideration.

timely warning

Focuses more on the warning aspect, highlighting the importance of acting promptly.

important lesson

Underlines the relevance of an experience

valuable lesson

Emphasizes the learning aspect, suggesting a positive outcome from a potentially negative experience.

helpful insight

Highlights the assistance in a better understanding of the matter

instructive example

Shifts the focus to the example itself, emphasizing its ability to teach or guide.

gentle nudge

Suggests a slight stimulus toward a specific course of action

FAQs

How can I use "salutary reminder" in a sentence?

The phrase "salutary reminder" is used to emphasize the positive effect of a warning or cautionary event. For example, "The near accident served as a "salutary reminder" to drive more carefully."

What's a simpler way to say "salutary reminder"?

While "salutary reminder" has a unique nuance, you could use alternatives like "wake up call", "sobering lesson", or "cautionary tale" depending on the specific context.

Is "salutary reminder" formal or informal?

"Salutary reminder" leans towards the formal side. While understandable in most contexts, it's best suited for written communication or more formal spoken settings. Consider simpler alternatives like "good lesson" in casual conversation.

What does "salutary" actually mean in "salutary reminder"?

In this context, "salutary" means producing a beneficial effect; conducive to health or well-being. So, a "salutary reminder" isn't just a reminder, but one that ultimately benefits you by prompting a change in behavior or understanding.