Cool MateCaution vs Warning
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
| Caution | Warning | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Be careful. | A message telling someone about a possible problem or danger. |
| CEFR level | C1 | B1 |
| Part of speech | noun | noun |
| Usage notes | Use 'caution' when advising someone to be careful. It is appropriate in both spoken and written contexts, but can sound slightly formal in casual conversations. | Use 'warning' when you want to alert someone about something potentially harmful. It's suitable for both spoken and written communication, but avoid using it in overly casual settings. |
Frequently asked questions: Caution vs Warning
What's the difference between "Caution" and "Warning"?
"Caution" means: Be careful. "Warning" means: A message telling someone about a possible problem or danger.
When should I use "Caution" and "Warning"?
They can all be used in everyday English.
Are "Caution" and "Warning" the same CEFR level?
"Caution" is at C1, "Warning" is at B1 on the CEFR scale.