warning

Something that tells you there may be danger or trouble.

• The red light is a warning.
• We ignored the warning and continued walking.
• Did you hear the storm warning?

How to use it: warning about something (We received a warning about the storm.); warning of something (There was no warning of the sudden flood.); warning that… (The message contained a warning that the bridge was unsafe.)

Similar words: alert, caution

Common phrases: warning sign, storm warning, early warning, written warning

An occasion when someone tells another person about possible danger or trouble.

• She gave us a warning before closing the gate.
• The lights went out without warning.
• Despite repeated warnings, he kept touching the hot pan.

How to use it: warning to someone (Her warning to the children came just in time.)

Similar words: cautioning

Common phrases: give a warning, without warning, advance warning

Used on a sign or notice to tell people to be careful because something is dangerous.

• Warning! The floor is slippery.
• Warning: Keep children away from this machine.
• Warning! This liquid can cause burns.

Similar words: caution, danger

Common phrases: warning hot surface, warning high voltage, warning slippery floor