warning

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "warning" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to alert someone about a potential danger or important information that requires attention. Example: "Warning: This product contains allergens that may cause reactions in sensitive individuals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Business

Books

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Brooker turned the screw on the Lib Dem leader right from the start of the live show, warning him: "This ain't going to help your poll ratings".

The Guardian

"The storm of airplanes will not stop," Abu Ghaith was heard warning in an October 2001 video that was played for the jury.

The Guardian

Lady Warsi, who resigned from the government in August over Gaza, delivered a blistering critique last month of the approach towards Britain's Muslims, warning that failure to engage properly with communities across the UK has created a climate of suspicion and undermined the fight against extremism.

The Guardian

As Maggie O'Farrell put it in her Guardian review: "The stories wrap themselves around the wholly disconcerting premise that catastrophes can rear up in anyone's life without warning".

The Guardian

The Serbs have stalled, playing for time or one side off against the other, with Brussels warning them that a green light would complicate the EU negotiations.

The Guardian

It went online on a Sunday, but it was only the following day, a work day, that a reader asked him if he'd thought about warning unsuspecting readers that the photo made the article NSFW – Not Safe For Work. "They explained," recalled Ebert, "that they read the column at work ("during lunch break", of course) and were afraid a supervisor or co-worker might see a nude on their monitor.

The Guardian

We've had Shell's first profits warning for a decade.

The Guardian - Business

McEwan also told graduates that they were now standing "on one of life's various summits", warning them not to "be taken in by those who tell you that life is short", because it's "inordinately long".

The Guardian - Books

And the things they've been saying," she says, adding confusingly: "I'm not a therapist!" She rings off, warning me darkly: "Tread carefully".

The Guardian

Gordon Brown has added his heavyweight credentials to the 'No' campaign, warning that a Scotland dominated by the SNP will not necessarily be more progressive than the status quo.

The Guardian

Related: Iranian navy fires warning shots at cargo ship in international waters in Gulf The talks began shortly after reports earlier on Thursday that Iranian Revolutionary guards had fired warning shots at a Singapore-flagged commercial ship in the Gulf, before vessels from the United Arab Emirates came to its aid.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider your audience and the context when choosing between "warning" and its synonyms, such as "caution" or "alert". "Warning" is often used for more serious or immediate dangers.

Common error

While "warning" is appropriate in many situations, overuse in formal documents can sound alarmist. Opt for more neutral terms like "notice" or "advisory" when appropriate to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "warning" is as a noun referring to an instance of alerting someone to danger. It can also function as a verb, in its present participle form. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the term "warning" is a versatile word predominantly functioning as a noun or verb, employed to signal potential dangers or important alerts. Ludwig AI analysis shows its grammatical correctness and common usage, especially in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Science contexts. While versatile, writers should be mindful of the context, opting for more formal alternatives like "notice" or "advisory" in professional settings to avoid sounding alarmist. Understanding the nuances of "warning" and its synonyms ensures effective and appropriate communication across diverse scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

alert

Focuses on the state of being vigilant and ready to deal with something dangerous or urgent.

cautionary note

Emphasizes the act of providing a caution.

advisory notice

Focuses on conveying formal advice or a recommendation.

precautionary measure

Highlights the implementation of a safeguard to prevent potential harm.

red flag

Implies a sign or signal indicating potential danger or problem.

notice

Stresses making something known or giving information about something.

forewarning signal

Stresses the aspect of providing advance notice of something.

alarm bell

Signifies something that should cause concern or alert.

caveat emptor

A Latin phrase meaning "let the buyer beware", indicating the buyer is responsible for checking the quality and suitability of goods before a purchase is made.

heads up

An informal way of saying "pay attention" or "be aware".

FAQs

How can I use "warning" in a sentence?

The word "warning" can be used to caution someone about a potential danger or to alert them to important information. For example: "The sign gave a clear warning about the slippery floor."

What can I say instead of "warning"?

You can use alternatives like "caution", "alert", or "notice" depending on the context.

When should I use "warning" versus "caution"?

"Warning" typically implies a more immediate or serious danger than "caution". Use "warning" when there is a significant risk of harm.

What is the difference between a "warning" and an "advisory"?

A "warning" indicates a higher level of risk and potential danger, while an "advisory" is more of a recommendation or suggestion to be cautious.