Definition

Noun: A piece of counsel or guidance, often cautionary, given to someone about a potential action, situation, or imminent risk. It implies a recommendation intended to help the recipient avoid a mistake or danger.

Usage

A "word of advice" is typically offered in a direct, often personal manner. It is used to preface or deliver a succinct, important piece of guidance. - It is commonly preceded by verbs like "give," "offer," or "have." - It often introduces a specific, practical recommendation.

Examples

• Before I left, my grandfather gave me a word of advice: always be honest.
• A word of advice – you should check the weather forecast before your hike.
• She had a word of advice for the new employees: listen more than you speak.

Advanced Usage

• As a final/single word of advice: Used to emphasize that this is the last or most important piece of guidance being offered.
  • My final word of advice is to trust your instincts.
• To take a word of advice: To accept and act upon the counsel given.
  • He would have avoided the problem if he had taken my word of advice.

Variants and Related Words

• Advice (n): Guidance or recommendations offered with regard to prudent future action. (Note: "Advice" is uncountable; you give "advice," not "an advice." A "word of advice" makes the counsel countable and specific.)
• Admonition (n): A firm warning or reprimand. This is a more formal synonym, often with a stronger tone of caution or criticism.
• Counsel (n): Advice, especially that given formally.

Synonyms

• Caution: A warning to be careful.
• Warning: A statement informing of a possible danger or problem.
• Guidance: Advice or information aimed at resolving a problem.

Related Phrases

• A piece of advice: Similar in meaning to "a word of advice," though potentially less concise.
• A bit of advice: An informal way to say the same thing.

Related Idioms

• A word to the wise (is sufficient): An idiom meaning that a hint or brief piece of advice is enough for an intelligent person to understand. It shares the concise, cautionary nature of "a word of advice."
  • A word to the wise: don't be late to the manager's meeting.

Noun

1. cautionary advice about something imminent (especially imminent danger or other unpleasantness)
   • a letter of admonition about the dangers of immorality
   • the warning was to beware of surprises
   • his final word of advice was not to play with matches