B1noun1K

Warning

UK /["/ˈwɔːnɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈwɔːrnɪŋ/"]/

Definition

a statement, an event, etc. telling somebody that something bad or unpleasant may happen in the future so that they can try to avoid it

In simple words: A message telling someone about a possible problem or danger.

Examples

  • The warning on the label advised against using the product around children.
  • He ignored the warning signs of the storm and went sailing anyway.
  • The teacher issued a warning to the students about their behavior.
  • She received a warning from her boss after coming late to work.
  • It's important to heed the warning from experts during a disaster.

Usage notes

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.

Grammar pattern

warning + object

Memory hint

Think of 'warn' with a big 'ing' at the end – imagine someone waving their hands to warn you!

Collocations

  • dire
  • grim
  • ominous
  • give (somebody)
  • issue
  • post
  • come
  • sound
  • label
  • notice
  • sign
  • in warning
  • without warning
  • warning about
  • let that/​this be a warning (to you)
  • a word of warning
  • dire
  • grim
  • ominous
  • give (somebody)
  • issue
  • post
  • come
  • sound
  • label
  • notice
  • sign
  • in warning
  • without warning
  • warning about
  • let that/​this be a warning (to you)
  • a word of warning

Synonyms

  • caution

Antonyms

  • safety
  • assurance
  • reassurance

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'warn' — remember 'warning' is a noun.
  • Using it in a context that doesn't involve danger or caution.
  • Misplacing it in a sentence, leading to unclear meaning.