stark warning

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'stark warning' is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that a specific warning or threat is serious and has a strong impact. For example, "The Prime Minister issued a stark warning that if people did not adhere to the safety protocols, the consequences would be dire."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Read his stark warning here.

The Telegraph

For them, I have a stark warning.

The Guardian

This is a very stark warning of what can happen".

The Guardian

But this sobering piece issues a stark warning: "Banking.

The Guardian

It contains a stark warning about the likelihood of an attack involving a "dirty bomb".

Independent

"This should send a stark warning to the City," Mr Chada said.

Independent

But its experience carries a stark warning for the future of technology.

The New York Times

Whilst this is a stark warning it offers no practical solutions to tackling the problem.

The Economist

Duvall signed off his tweets with a stark warning: "Can't be complacent".

The Guardian

This book, then, is a morality tale as well as a stark warning.

The Guardian - Books

Margo's stark warning carries additional weight in that he is a member of Trump's own party.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "stark warning", ensure the context clearly establishes the potential negative consequences if the warning is ignored. The phrase is most effective when the threat is significant and easily understood.

Common error

Avoid using "stark warning" for minor issues or inconveniences. This phrase is best reserved for situations with genuinely serious implications, as overuse can dilute its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stark warning" functions as a noun phrase typically used as the object of verbs like 'issue', 'give', or 'contain'. It emphasizes the severity and clarity of the warning being conveyed. Ludwig confirms that this phrase is used to highlight serious and impending threats.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "stark warning" is a commonly used and grammatically correct expression that emphasizes the seriousness and urgency of a warning. As Ludwig AI points out, this phrase is frequently used in news and media to draw attention to significant potential dangers. When using "stark warning", consider alternatives like "grave warning" or "dire warning" to tailor the intensity of your message. Remember that the best practice is to use this phrase only when the potential consequences are truly serious, and to avoid overuse to maintain its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

grave warning

Emphasizes the serious and potentially dangerous nature of the warning.

dire warning

Highlights the extremely serious or urgent nature of the warning.

serious caution

Shifts the focus to a more careful and considered approach, rather than a direct threat.

solemn warning

Conveys a sense of gravity and importance in the warning being given.

stern caution

Implies a strict and authoritative warning against certain actions.

forceful warning

Highlights the power and insistence behind the warning.

explicit warning

Indicates that the warning is clear, direct, and leaves no room for misinterpretation.

unambiguous warning

Emphasizes the clarity and lack of doubt in the warning.

pointed warning

Suggests that the warning is specifically directed at someone or something.

urgent caution

Indicates the immediacy and critical nature of the warning.

FAQs

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

The phrase "stark warning" is typically used when someone wants to emphasize the severity of a warning. For example, "The doctor issued a "stark warning" about the dangers of smoking".

What are some alternatives to "stark warning"?

Alternatives include "grave warning", "dire warning", or "serious caution", depending on the desired level of emphasis and formality.

Is it appropriate to use "stark warning" in formal writing?

Yes, "stark warning" is suitable for formal writing, especially in news reports or analytical pieces where a serious threat or risk needs to be highlighted.

What makes a warning "stark"?

A "stark" warning is clear, direct, and leaves little room for misinterpretation regarding the potential negative outcomes if the warning is not heeded. It often implies a significant and unavoidable consequence.