should be warned

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "should be warned" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that someone needs to be alerted or informed about a potential danger or important information. Example: "Before proceeding with the experiment, all participants should be warned about the possible side effects."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But the usual suspects should be warned.

Independent

Prospective patients should be warned.

The New York Times - Science

But Theresa May's government should be warned.

The Guardian - Opinion

Parents should be warned that the subject matter is harsh.

The New York Times - Books

Anyone thinking of relocating to Poldark country should be warned.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Patrons should be warned that it is a long evening, nearly five hours in all.

The New Yorker

Students of his games should be warned: Don't try this at home.

The New York Times

This column, readers should be warned from the outset, is an exercise in futility.

Independent

"Everyone should be warned against staining their hands with Muslim blood".

The New York Times

Fans of the later music should be warned that there are few resemblances here.

The New York Times - Arts

Ministers should be warned - we are keeping calm and carrying on campaigning.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "should be warned", clearly state the potential risk or consequence that the warning is intended to prevent. This ensures the recipient understands the importance of the warning.

Common error

Avoid using "should be warned" without specifying what the warning pertains to. A vague warning lacks actionable information and is less likely to be heeded. Always provide context and specific details about the potential danger or issue.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "should be warned" functions as a modal passive construction, indicating that someone needs to receive a warning. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable form in written English, highlighting its role in conveying necessary precautions or alerts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "should be warned" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, as confirmed by Ludwig. Its main function is to alert individuals about potential risks or important information across various contexts, including news, science, and formal communications. While the phrase is considered neutral, its application is most effective when coupled with explicit information about the specific risk. Alternatives such as "ought to be cautioned" or "must be alerted" can be used to convey a similar message, depending on the desired level of emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ought to be cautioned

Emphasizes a moral or advisory obligation to warn someone.

must be alerted

Highlights the necessity of informing someone about something important or dangerous.

need to be notified

Focuses on the action of informing someone, often in an official capacity.

should be advised

Implies giving formal or professional advice regarding a potential issue.

should be made aware

Stresses the importance of ensuring someone knows about something.

should be informed

Highlights the act of providing information to someone.

it is important to caution

Emphasizes the significance of giving a warning.

it is necessary to alert

Stresses the urgency and importance of providing an alert.

be given a heads-up

Offers a more informal way of saying someone should be warned.

be forewarned

Uses a more concise and direct way to communicate warning.

FAQs

How can I use "should be warned" in a sentence?

You can use "should be warned" to indicate that someone needs to be alerted about a potential danger or important information. For example: "Travelers "should be warned" that even indirect contact can lead to problems."

What are some alternatives to "should be warned"?

Alternatives include phrases like "ought to be cautioned", "must be alerted", or "need to be notified", depending on the specific context and level of formality.

When is it appropriate to use "should be warned"?

"Should be warned" is appropriate when there's a genuine risk or important consideration that someone needs to be aware of to make informed decisions or avoid potential harm. The level of formality can be adapted to the context.

What is the difference between "should be warned" and "should be advised"?

"Should be warned" typically implies a potential danger or negative consequence, whereas "should be advised" suggests providing professional or expert guidance. The former focuses on averting harm, while the latter aims to offer helpful recommendations.