What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
warn
Example
I want to warn you that the road ahead is very slippery. [warn: verb]
Example
The teacher warned the students that cheating would not be tolerated. [warned: past tense verb]
caution
Example
The sign cautioned drivers to slow down due to construction ahead. [cautioned: past tense verb]
Example
I would caution you against making any hasty decisions. [caution: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Warn is more commonly used than caution in everyday language, but both words are important for safety-related contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between warn and caution?
Both warn and caution can be used in formal and informal contexts, but warn may be perceived as more formal due to its stronger connotation.
