warning
WAW-nihng
Warning (noun) means a statement, sign, or signal alerting someone to a danger, problem, or possible consequence. Example: “The lifeguard issued a warning about strong currents.”
noun
1
A statement, sign, or signal alerting someone to a danger, problem, or possible consequence.
"The lifeguard issued a warning about strong currents."
"He ignored the warning and touched the hot pan anyway."
"The teacher gave the class a final warning before sending them out."
intj
1
Used on its own, especially on signs, to alert someone to danger.
"WARNING: Wet Floor."
"The sign on the fence simply said WARNING above a picture of a bull."
"Warning! The ice on this pond is thin and dangerous."
How to use warning
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomething said or shown to alert people to a risk before it happens.
Common pairings
issue a warning
without warning
final warning
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Word forms
- Plural
- warnings
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The lifeguard issued a _____ about strong currents.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for warning
See all rhymes for warning →Frequently asked questions
What does “warning” mean?
The word “warning” means a statement, sign, or signal alerting someone to a danger, problem, or possible consequence. In plain terms, something said or shown to alert people to a risk before it happens.
How do you pronounce “warning”?
“Warning” is pronounced WAW-nihng (/ˈwoɹnɪŋ/ in IPA).
How do you use “warning” in a sentence?
Here is “warning” used in a sentence: “The lifeguard issued a warning about strong currents.”
What is another word for “warning”?
Words with a similar meaning to “warning” include caution.
What part of speech is “warning”?
Depending on how it is used, “warning” can be a noun and an intj.
Is “warning” a common word?
“Warning” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “warning” have?
“Warning” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a statement, sign, or signal alerting someone to a danger, problem, or possible consequence.
What is the difference between a warning and a caution?
Both alert you to a potential problem, but they differ in strength. A caution advises care where some risk exists, like 'caution: slippery when wet.' A warning is more serious, signalling real danger or a definite consequence if it is ignored. A warning demands attention; a caution simply asks for care.
What are the types of warnings?
Warnings take many forms: spoken warnings, written notices, and warning labels on products; hazard signs and symbols; and alerts such as weather, flood, or health warnings. In workplaces, a formal warning is a disciplinary step. Each shares one purpose — to flag danger or consequences before harm occurs.
What is an example of a warning?
A 'wet floor' sign, a storm warning issued by forecasters, and the flashing lights at a level crossing are all everyday warnings. So is a doctor cautioning a patient about a health risk, or a label reading 'danger: high voltage.' Each alerts someone to a hazard or likely consequence.
What is the difference between a warning and a threat?
A warning is given for your benefit, alerting you to danger so you can avoid harm. A threat is hostile, stating an intention to cause you harm. 'Mind the ice' is a warning; 'I'll make you pay' is a threat. Intent is what separates the two.
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