WordGarden.iowarn
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /wˈɔːn/
US
- /ˈwɔrn/
Meanings
Verb
to tell someone about possible danger or trouble so they can avoid it
to firmly tell someone not to do something or to expect consequences
Beyond the definition
To warn someone is to tell them about a possible problem or danger so they have time to prepare or stay away from it. A lifeguard may warn swimmers about rough waves, and a mechanic may warn you that your brakes are failing. The message can be spoken, written, or shown by a sign or signal. Sometimes it is gentle, and sometimes it is urgent, depending on how serious the danger is. A good friend may warn you about a bad idea, and a weather report may warn us about an approaching storm.
The word "warn" means to tell someone about possible danger, trouble, or an unpleasant result before it happens, so they can be careful or do something to avoid it. It is more than simply giving information. It usually carries a sense of concern, caution, or responsibility. For example: "The doctor warned her about the side effects of the medication," or "He warned his children not to play near the busy road."
"Warn" can be used in many situations, from everyday moments to serious public safety messages. You might warn a friend about a slippery patch of ice, a teacher might warn students not to cheat on a test, and a government might warn people about a coming storm. Alarms, lights, and signs can also warn people without using spoken words.
Warning often suggests that someone has noticed a risk and wants others to take it seriously. If the other person ignores the advice and something goes wrong, someone might say, "I warned them, but they didn't listen." The word can also suggest seeing a problem early and speaking up in time.
At its core, "warn" is about helping people stay safe, avoid mistakes, or get ready for something difficult. It can describe a friendly heads-up, a serious piece of advice, or an official notice meant to protect people from harm.
Examples
- 1
Medical advice
The doctor warned me not to start training again too soon.
- 2
Storm safety
Officials warned residents to stay indoors during the storm.
- 3
Road safety
She warned us about the icy roads before we left.
- 4
Traffic delays
Police warned drivers of long delays after the accident.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Practical warning
I should warn you that the hotel has very thin walls.
- 6
Health advice
Health experts have warned against eating too much processed meat.
- Patternwarn against + action/choice
say it is risky or a bad idea
- 7
Land access
The farmer put up a fence to warn people off the land.
- Patternwarn someone off + place/thing
tell or show them to stay away
- 8
Advance notice
Just to warn you, the meeting usually runs late.
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- warnverb
Forms
- warning-ing formverb
- warnedpast tenseverb
- warnsverb