with a caveat

USAGE SUMMARY

"with a caveat" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
You would use it in a sentence when you are introducing a warning or condition that must be taken into consideration when thinking of something. For example: "I'm open to exploring the possibility of a new project, with a caveat that we stay within budget."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But it comes with a caveat.

The Economist

It's a rave with a caveat.

The New Yorker

That does come with a caveat.

The New York Times

The bishop relents, with a caveat.

The New York Times

The answer is yes with a caveat.

The New York Times - Sports

Those grim figures come with a caveat.

The New York Times

Uncurliness comes with a caveat.

The New York Times

That is, with a caveat.

The Guardian - Sport

Inglis finished with a caveat.

The New York Times - Sports

He continues with a caveat: Except!

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

That comes with a caveat...be realistic about your talent.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure the caveat is clearly explained immediately after using the phrase, providing specific details about the condition or limitation.

Common error

Avoid using "with a caveat" without clearly specifying what the caveat is. A vague caveat can confuse readers and undermine your credibility. Always provide specific details about the condition or limitation you're introducing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "with a caveat" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a statement by introducing a condition or limitation. As Ludwig AI indicates, it signals that the preceding statement is not entirely straightforward and requires further consideration.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "with a caveat" is a versatile phrase used to introduce a condition or limitation to a statement. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and widespread use. Its function as an adverbial phrase adds nuance and precision, making it suitable for neutral to formal contexts. While synonyms exist, the key is to ensure the specific condition is clearly articulated. Remember to avoid vagueness when using "with a caveat", and always clarify the condition or limitation immediately afterward. It is most frequently found in News & Media, Academia and Science.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with a qualification

Suggests a specific condition that must be met for the statement to be fully true.

with a limitation

Replaces "caveat" with a more general term for restriction.

however, there's a stipulation

Introduces a specific requirement or demand.

subject to certain conditions

Emphasizes the conditional nature of the statement.

on the condition that

Clearly establishes a prerequisite for the statement's validity.

provided that

Similar to 'on the condition that', but slightly more formal.

with a reservation

Implies a feeling of doubt or hesitation, adding a layer of subjectivity.

with the understanding that

Highlights a mutual agreement or assumption behind the statement.

not without its drawbacks

Focuses on the negative aspects or disadvantages involved.

but there's a catch

More informal, signaling a hidden disadvantage or problem.

FAQs

How can I use "with a caveat" in a sentence?

You can use "with a caveat" to introduce a condition or limitation to a statement. For example, "I recommend this approach, "with a caveat": it requires significant upfront investment".

What does "with a caveat" mean?

"With a caveat" means that a statement is true, valid, or applicable only under certain conditions or with specific limitations.

Are there synonyms for "with a caveat"?

Yes, you can use phrases like "with a limitation", "with a qualification", or "subject to certain conditions" as alternatives.

Is it better to clearly state the condition rather than use "with a caveat"?

While using "with a caveat" is acceptable, it's often better to directly state the condition or limitation for clarity. For example, instead of "This is a good solution, with a caveat", you could say "This is a good solution, provided that the budget allows for it".