we have been warned

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we have been warned" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to indicate that somebody has been taught to take caution with something, or that a warning has been given about something. For example: "We have been warned not to trust anyone we meet online."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

We have been warned by the events of 11 September, and we should act on the warning". From September 11th on, I could see the threat plainly.

The Guardian

We have been warned.

The Guardian - Film

But we have been warned.

Independent

We have been warned by scientists.

The Guardian - Opinion

We have been warned how difficult it is.

Independent

We have been warned; they know we're here.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

And we had been warned".

The New York Times

But we've been warned.

The New Yorker

We've been warned.

The Guardian - Music

We've been warned we might have to queue.

The Guardian - Travel

But now we've been warned -- specifically warned.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we have been warned" to emphasize a prior notification, especially when highlighting potential risks or consequences. This adds weight to the discussion by showcasing preparedness or lack thereof.

Common error

Avoid overuse. While grammatically correct, relying heavily on the passive voice (like "we have been warned") can weaken your writing. Actively state who issued the warning for a stronger impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we have been warned" functions as a declarative statement indicating that a warning has been received. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. The examples show how the phrase is used to convey that prior notification or caution has been given regarding a potential danger, risk, or negative consequence.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we have been warned" is a grammatically sound phrase used to convey that a warning has been received. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. Its primary function is to inform, often with an undertone of responsibility or potential consequence. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, its register is generally neutral. Consider using stronger, more active phrasing to convey the warning's source for a more impactful message. Alternatives such as "we were forewarned" or "we received a warning" may be suitable depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we were forewarned

Changes the verb tense to past, emphasizing the completed action of warning.

we received a warning

Focuses on the act of receiving the warning rather than the state of being warned.

we were alerted

Uses a different verb to convey the notification of potential danger.

we had advance notice

Highlights the prior knowledge of an upcoming event or situation.

we were given a heads-up

An informal alternative indicating a casual warning or notification.

we were put on notice

Emphasizes the formal or official nature of the warning.

we were cautioned

Uses a different verb to indicate a reminder to be careful.

we were advised

Focuses on receiving guidance or recommendations about a potential situation.

we were tipped off

Suggests receiving a secret or confidential warning.

the writing was on the wall

Idiomatic expression implying an obvious impending negative outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "we have been warned" in a sentence?

You can use "we have been warned" to indicate that a warning has been given about a potential danger or problem. For example, "We have been warned about the risks of investing in cryptocurrency".

What are some alternatives to "we have been warned"?

Some alternatives include "we were forewarned", "we received a warning", or "we were alerted", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "we had been warned" instead of "we have been warned"?

Yes, "we had been warned" is grammatically correct. It uses the past perfect tense, indicating that the warning occurred at an earlier point in the past relative to another past event. "We have been warned" uses the present perfect, connecting the warning to the present.

What's the difference between "we were warned" and "we have been warned"?

"We were warned" uses the simple past tense, indicating a completed action in the past. "We have been warned" uses the present perfect tense, suggesting that the warning has relevance or impact on the present situation.