Definition

Noun: 1. A formal legal notice: In law, a formal notice or warning filed with a court or official to request that a specific action (like granting a will or proceeding with a case) be delayed or suspended until the person filing the notice can be heard. 2. A warning, caution, or qualification: A statement that warns people about specific limitations, conditions, or potential problems associated with something, urging caution or careful consideration.

Examples of Usage

• Noun (Legal):
  • The lawyer filed a caveat to prevent the estate from being distributed until the new will could be examined.
  • A caveat was entered against the probate of the document.
• Noun (Warning/Qualification):
  • The report on the new drug's success came with the caveat that more long-term studies were needed.
  • He agreed to invest, but with the caveat that he would have final approval over major expenses.
  • One important caveat: this software is not compatible with older operating systems.

Advanced Usage

• "Caveat emptor": A Latin phrase meaning "let the buyer beware." It is a principle in commerce stating that the buyer alone is responsible for checking the quality and suitability of goods before a purchase is made.
  • In many used car sales, the rule is caveat emptor.
• "To add/offer a caveat": To introduce a warning or condition.
  • She endorsed the plan but added the caveat that funding must be secured first.

Variants and Related Words

• Caveator (noun): A person who files a legal caveat.

Synonyms

• Warning: An indication of potential danger or a problem.
• Caution: Care taken to avoid danger or mistakes; a warning.
• Admonition: Firm advice or warning.
• Proviso: A condition or qualification attached to an agreement or statement.
• Stipulation: A condition or requirement specified as part of an agreement.

Related Phrases

• With the caveat that...: Used to introduce a specific warning or condition.
  • I recommend him for the job, with the caveat that he requires close supervision.
• The only caveat is...: Used to introduce the sole or primary warning.
  • The design is perfect. The only caveat is the high production cost.

Noun

1. (law) a formal notice filed with a court or officer to suspend a proceeding until filer is given a hearing
   • a caveat filed against the probate of a will
2. a warning against certain acts
   • a caveat against unfair practices