warn Definition
to tell someone that something bad or unpleasant may happen in the future, so that they can be ready or avoid it.
Using warn: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "warn" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
I warned him about the icy roads.
Example
The teacher warned the students not to cheat on the exam.
Example
The weather forecast warned of a possible hurricane.
Example
The doctor warned her patient about the side effects of the medication.
warn Synonyms and Antonyms
Idioms Using warn
Example
A: I think I'll try to cheat on the exam. B: A word to the wise is enough: don't do it.
Example
Be warned: the trail can be dangerous in rainy weather.
Example
The recent stock market crash was a canary in a coal mine for the economy.
Phrases with warn
Example
The guard dog warned off any intruders.
to advise someone not to do something because it may be dangerous or have negative consequences
Example
The government warns against traveling to countries with high levels of crime.
warn up
to prepare for an activity by doing some warm-up exercises
Example
The coach warned up the team before the game.
Origins of warn
from Old English 'warnian', meaning 'to take heed of'
Summary: warn in Brief
The verb 'warn' [wɔːn] means to inform someone about a potential danger or unpleasant situation so that they can prepare or avoid it. It can be used in various contexts, such as warning someone about icy roads or side effects of medication. 'Warn' can also be used in phrases like 'warn off,' meaning to scare someone away, and 'warn against,' meaning to advise against doing something. Idioms like 'a word to the wise is enough' and 'be warned' further emphasize the importance of caution.
