words of warning

USAGE SUMMARY

"words of warning" is a correct and commonly-used phrase in written English.
It can be used when giving someone advice or cautioning them about potential dangers or consequences. Here is an example sentence: "I want to offer you some words of warning before you make your decision - this job may seem appealing, but it comes with a lot of stress and long hours."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science & Research

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

Finally, a few words of warning.

The New Yorker

Some words of warning about travelling by coach in Venezuela.

The Guardian - Travel

First, some quick notes on how PolitFact works and a few words of warning.

The New York Times

With apologies for any offense, he offered some final words of warning.

The New York Times

(So much for choosing a short one!) There have been words of warning from readers too.

The Guardian - Books

He said the companies had just objected to "grotesque" images, but not to new words of warning.

The New York Times - Health

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

One word of warning.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

But he adds a word of warning.

Independent

A quick word of warning.

The Guardian

But a word of warning.

The New York Times

One more word of warning.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "words of warning" when you want to emphasize that you are giving advice about potential dangers or negative consequences. It's stronger than just giving advice; it highlights the risks involved.

Common error

While "words of warning" is a useful phrase, avoid using it excessively in a single piece of writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "cautionary advice" or "note of caution" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

Words of warning function as a noun phrase used to introduce or emphasize cautionary advice. As Ludwig AI explains, this phrase cautions about possible negative consequences. For example, 'He offered some final words of warning.'

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Science & Research

13%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

Words of warning is a commonly used phrase employed to emphasize caution and potential risks. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage, indicating that it serves to alert individuals to possible negative consequences. Grammatically sound and frequently found in news, media, and academic contexts, its purpose is to guide decisions by highlighting potential downsides. While it is essential to use this phrase judiciously, the analysis reveals its important role in cautionary communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fair warning

A declaration that a warning has been given, absolving the speaker of responsibility for subsequent negative outcomes.

note of caution

Emphasizes the cautionary aspect of the message, highlighting potential risks.

cautionary advice

Implies advice that is meant to warn, focusing on the advice itself rather than the act of warning.

forewarning

A noun that refers to a warning given in advance, often about something negative.

warning sign

Signifies an indication of potential danger or problems.

caveat

Introduces a specific limitation or condition, typically within a statement or agreement.

admonition

A firm and earnest warning or reprimand.

word to the wise

An idiom that suggests a piece of advice, often implying that ignoring it could lead to negative consequences.

take heed

An imperative phrase urging someone to pay attention and consider a warning.

heads up

An informal way to give advance notice of something, often a problem or challenge.

FAQs

How can I use "words of warning" in a sentence?

You can use "words of warning" to introduce a cautionary statement, like "I offer these "words of warning": proceed with caution" or "Before you invest, heed these "words of warning"".

What's a more formal alternative to "words of warning"?

For a more formal context, consider using phrases like "a "note of caution"", "admonition", or "cautionary advice".

When is it appropriate to use "words of warning"?

"Words of warning" are appropriate when you need to emphasize the potential negative consequences of a particular action or decision. They are suitable in situations where you are offering advice based on experience or knowledge of potential risks.

How does "words of warning" differ from simply giving advice?

While advice offers guidance, "words of warning" specifically highlight potential dangers or negative outcomes. The phrase emphasizes the risks involved, making it a stronger statement than general advice.