warning signs

USAGE SUMMARY

'warning signs' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to physical signs that indicate possible danger ahead. For example: "The sky was dark, and there were warning signs of an impending storm."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Were there warning signs?

The New York Times

Were warning signs missed?

Independent

There were warning signs.

The New York Times

There are certainly warning signs.

The Economist

Still, there are warning signs.

The New York Times

Here are five warning signs.

The Guardian

But there were warning signs.

Independent

The warning signs appeared early.

Independent

Why were warning signs overlooked?

The New York Times

They were warning signs.

The Washington Post

What are the warning signs?

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "warning signs" in your writing, ensure the context clearly defines what these signs are pointing towards. Be specific about the potential danger or issue they foreshadow.

Common error

Avoid using "warning signs" without providing concrete examples. Stating that there were "warning signs" without specifying them leaves the reader uninformed and undermines the message's impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "warning signs" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It denotes indicators or signals that alert individuals to potential danger, problems, or risks. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this usage is correct and common.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Wiki

20%

Science

12%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "warning signs" is a commonly used noun phrase that denotes indicators of potential danger or problems. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. It serves to inform and caution, prompting awareness and preventative action across diverse contexts, as evidenced by its prevalence in News & Media, Wiki, and Science. While generally neutral, the formality can shift with context. When using "warning signs", specify the potential danger to ensure clarity and avoid overgeneralization. Alternatives such as "red flags", "early indicators", and "signs of trouble" offer nuanced ways to convey similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

signs of trouble

A more general phrase that indicates problems or difficulties are arising.

red flags

Uses a visual metaphor to suggest immediate attention and caution.

markers of danger

Directly points to elements or conditions that indicate potential harm.

early indicators

Focuses on the temporal aspect, emphasizing the beginning stages of a problem.

alert signals

Highlights the communicative function of the signs, emphasizing their role in raising awareness.

symptoms of concern

Highlights signs that something is not right and warrants attention.

indications of risk

Emphasizes the potential dangers associated with the observed signs.

cautionary indicators

Stresses the need for careful consideration and prudence.

premonitory symptoms

Highlights symptoms that signal an impending problem.

ominous portents

Implies a more foreboding and potentially severe outcome.

FAQs

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

You can use "warning signs" to indicate potential dangers or problems. For example: "The economic downturn showed several "early indicators" and "red flags", including declining consumer confidence and increased unemployment."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "warning signs"?

Alternatives to "warning signs" include phrases like "red flags", "early indicators", or "signs of trouble", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use "warning signs"?

"Warning signs" can be used in various contexts, such as discussing health, finance, relationships, or even weather patterns, to highlight potential risks or problems that need attention.

What is the difference between "warning signs" and "symptoms"?

"Warning signs" typically refer to indicators of a problem in a broader context, whereas "symptoms" usually refer to physical or mental manifestations of a disease or condition. For instance, "declining sales" might be a "red flags" of financial trouble, while "fever" is a symptom of illness.