warn

/wɔ:n/

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Explanation of the Word "Warn"

Definition: The verb "warn" means to tell someone about a possible danger, problem, or something they should be careful about. It is often used to give advance notice so that the person can take action to avoid harm or trouble.

Usage Instructions:

1. Subject + warn + object + (that/against) + clause: This is the common structure. For example:

   • "I warned him that the road is slippery."
   • "She warned us against swimming in the lake."

2. Warning someone to do something: You can also warn someone to take specific actions. For example:

   • "I warn you to be careful with that knife."

Examples:

1. Notify of danger:

   • "The lifeguard warned the children not to swim too far from the shore."

2. Admonish about behavior:

   • "I warned him not to speak so loudly in the library."

3. Notify about a potential risk:

   • "The teacher warned us that the exam would be difficult."

Advanced Usage:

• "Warn" can also be used in a more formal context, such as in legal or professional settings. For example:
  • "The company warned employees of the potential layoffs next month."

Word Variants:

• Warning (noun): A statement or indication of a possible danger. For example:

  • "He gave a warning about the storm coming."

• Warned (past tense): The past form of the verb. For example:

  • "She warned him yesterday."

Different Meanings:

• In some contexts, "warn" can imply a mild threat or a strong suggestion, not just a caution. For example:
  • "I warn you, if you don’t finish your homework, you will face consequences."

Synonyms:

• Alert
• Advise
• Caution
• Notify
• Forewarn
• Tip off

Idioms:

• "To give someone a heads up": This means to inform someone about something in advance. For example:
  • "Just wanted to give you a heads up about the meeting tomorrow."

Phrasal Verbs:

• "Warn against": This means to advise someone not to do something. For example:
  • "The teacher warned against cheating on exams."

Academic

Verb

1. notify, usually in advance
   • I warned you that I would ask some difficult questions
2. ask to go away
   • The old man warned the children off his property
3. admonish or counsel in terms of someone's behavior
   • I warned him not to go too far
   • I warn you against false assumptions
   • She warned him to be quiet
4. notify of danger, potential harm, or risk
   • The director warned him that he might be fired
   • The doctor warned me about the dangers of smoking

Synonyms

• discourage
• admonish
• monish