use caution

USAGE SUMMARY

"use caution" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to warn someone about a potential danger or risk. For example, "Use caution when crossing the street; there may be cars coming."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Use caution and move away".

The New York Times

Recommendation: Use caution.

TechCrunch

Use caution, however.

TechCrunch

Parents please use caution.

Huffington Post

Please use caution.

Huffington Post

Above all, use caution.

WikiHow

Use caution, and help.

WikiHow

Obviously, use caution.

WikiHow

Use caution if approached.

WikiHow

Use caution accordingly.

WikiHow

Use caution around flames.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Always follow "use caution" with a specific explanation of the potential hazard.

Common error

Avoid using "use caution" as a generic warning without explaining the specific danger. Always provide context to make the warning effective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "use caution" functions primarily as an imperative, directly instructing someone to be careful and attentive to potential dangers. Ludwig AI indicates that it is correct and usable. Examples often pair it with specific situations requiring care.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

50%

News & Media

8%

Science

42%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "use caution" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that serves as an imperative to advise care and vigilance. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides numerous examples. Its register is generally neutral, making it suitable for various contexts, with the majority of examples coming from Wiki and News & Media sources. When employing this phrase, it's best practice to follow it with a specific explanation of the potential hazard to ensure clarity and effectiveness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be careful

This is a direct and simple way to advise someone to avoid potential harm or mistakes.

watch out

This is a warning to be alert to immediate danger.

look out

Similar to watch out, but can also mean to be aware of surroundings.

exercise care

This phrase suggests a deliberate and thoughtful approach to avoid risks.

proceed with care

Suggests moving forward slowly and cautiously.

stay alert

Similar to be vigilant, but emphasizes a state of readiness.

be vigilant

This advises watchfulness and attentiveness to potential dangers.

be wary

Advises being suspicious or distrustful of potential dangers.

take heed

This phrase is a more formal way of saying pay attention and be careful.

mind yourself

This is an informal way to tell someone to be careful, often used in British English.

FAQs

How can I use "use caution" in a sentence?

You can use "use caution" to advise someone to be careful in a potentially dangerous situation. For example, "Use caution when handling hot liquids".

What is a more formal alternative to "use caution"?

A more formal alternative to "use caution" is to "exercise care". This phrase is suitable for professional or academic contexts.

When is it appropriate to use "use caution"?

"Use caution" is appropriate when there is a potential risk of injury, damage, or negative consequences. It is often used in instructions, warnings, and safety guidelines.

What can I say instead of "use caution" in an informal setting?

In an informal setting, you could say "be careful" or "watch out". These phrases are more casual and direct.