Caution vs Yellow card

When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.

 CautionYellow card
MeaningBe careful.A card shown to players for breaking the rules in a game.
CEFR levelC1-
Part of speechnoun
Usage notesUse 'caution' when advising someone to be careful. It is appropriate in both spoken and written contexts, but can sound slightly formal in casual conversations.Used mostly in sports contexts, particularly soccer. Not appropriate in non-sport conversations.

Frequently asked questions: Caution vs Yellow card

What's the difference between "Caution" and "Yellow card"?

"Caution" means: Be careful. "Yellow card" means: A card shown to players for breaking the rules in a game.

When should I use "Caution" and "Yellow card"?

They can all be used in everyday English.

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