warning tone

USAGE SUMMARY

"warning tone" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe a voice or sound that conveys the idea of caution or of a looming threat. For example, "He delivered the bad news in a stern warning tone, making it very clear that she should think carefully before replying."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

"Jay," his mother said in a warning tone, unable to specify a crime.

The New Yorker

The manufacturer's Web site describes "influencing behavior with a highly irritating warning tone".

The New York Times

The cockpit recorder captured two thumps, followed by a warning tone that indicated that the stabilizer, the broken part, was in motion.

The New York Times

Available at shop.delorme.com, the PN-20 can guide you through street or trail routes, signaling turns with a warning tone, so it can be used on the road as well.

The New York Times - Tech

A paramedic, John Pocock, told the hearing that after being called to the house and finding Berezovsky on the bathroom floor, a "warning tone" was triggered on a radiation detection device that he was carrying.

The Guardian

The warning tone for the NO-GO-response had a frequency of f = 200 Hz.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

The best, as FP Passport notes, is that the whaling crew refuses to acknowledge that the LRAD is a weapon, instead saying it merely sends out "beeping warning tones".

TechCrunch

If they made an error, they heard 2 warning tones followed by the name of the finger they should have used for their response.

Cerebral Cortex

Quality sleep is a problem for the critically ill who are cared for in an environment where interventions night and day are common, staff members are constantly present in relatively high numbers, and treatment is accompanied by a range of changing warning tones and alarms and lights.

Critical Care

Now just a few days later, in the absence of any apparently earth-shaking news and without warning the tone has completely changed.

Huffington Post

Meanwhile, the state media have published a steady flow of articles warning microbloggers to tone down their commentaries.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "warning tone" in your writing, specify where possible its origin (a machine, a person) and its effect (alerting, intimidating).

Common error

Avoid using "warning tone" for situations that require stronger, more direct language. While it implies caution, it might not convey the full extent of an immediate threat. Use more urgent terms when necessary.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "warning tone" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often used as a subject or object in a sentence. It describes a specific type of sound or vocal quality that conveys a message of caution or impending danger. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

42%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "warning tone" effectively conveys a sense of impending caution or threat, as demonstrated by its frequent use across various domains. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability, highlighting its versatility in describing both auditory signals and human vocal expressions. From news reports to scientific studies, "warning tone" serves as a reliable indicator of situations requiring attention. While it is most commonly found in "News & Media" and scientific contexts, its neutral register ensures its appropriateness in diverse writing styles. When incorporating this phrase into your writing, consider specifying the source and intended effect to enhance clarity. For example, it can describe a siren or a person's change in vocal delivery. By doing this, you will increase the clarity of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

threatening intonation

Highlights the threatening vocal quality.

cautionary note

Focuses on the cautionary aspect, implying a mild warning.

alarming signal

Highlights the potential danger.

alerting signal

Highlights the signaling function, indicating an impending event.

ominous sound

Emphasizes the negative or threatening nature of the sound.

stern voice

Emphasizes the severity and firmness of the voice.

premonitory indication

Suggests a sign that something is about to happen, often negative.

urgent message

Highlights the need for immediate attention.

red flag

A common idiom for a warning sign.

foreboding atmosphere

Shifts the focus to the overall feeling of impending doom.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "warning tone" in a sentence?

Employ "warning tone" to depict a shift in sound or voice that conveys caution or a potential threat. For instance, "The machine emitted a "warning tone" before shutting down", or "Her voice shifted to a "warning tone" as she addressed the trespassers".

What are some alternatives to "warning tone"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "cautionary note", "alerting signal", or "threatening intonation".

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

Yes, "warning tone" is suitable for formal writing, especially when describing situations where caution or danger is present. It maintains a professional and informative "tone" while effectively communicating the message.

What's the difference between "warning tone" and "alarming tone"?

"Warning tone" generally suggests a signal of potential danger or caution, while "alarming tone" implies a higher level of concern and urgency. The former is a heads-up, whereas the latter suggests immediate action may be needed.