5K

Yellow card

UK //ˈjɛloʊ kɑːd// US //ˈjɛloʊ kɑrd// Pronunciation

Definition

A caution given to a player for misconduct in sports.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A card shown to players for breaking the rules in a game.

Examples

• The referee showed the player a yellow card for excessive pushing.
• He received a yellow card during the match for arguing with the referee.
• After getting a yellow card, the player knew he had to be more careful.
• In soccer, a yellow card warns players of their foul behavior.
• The player was shocked when he saw the yellow card in the referee's hand.

Usage notes

Used mostly in sports contexts, particularly soccer. Not appropriate in non-sport conversations.

Grammar pattern

noun + noun

Memory hint

Think of a bright yellow card as a warning before a serious penalty.

Collocations

• receive a yellow card
• show a yellow card
• get a yellow card

Synonyms

• warning card
• caution
• penalty card

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'red card' which means a more serious penalty.
• Used in non-sport contexts incorrectly as a warning.
• Overgeneralized to mean any form of reprimand.