warning
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈwɔːrnɪŋ/
KK: /ˈwɔrnɪŋ/
adjective
Definition
Serving to alert someone about a potential danger or problem.
Example
The warning signs indicated that a storm was approaching.
Conversation
Did you see that warning sign on the road?
Yeah, it said to drive slowly because of construction ahead.
I always pay attention to those warning signs.
Me too! They really help keep us safe.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
cautionary
alerting
advisory
Antonyms
unwarned
heedless
ignorant
noun
Definition
A message or signal that tells someone to be careful or to avoid something dangerous.
Example
The weather service issued a warning about the approaching storm.
Conversation
Did you see that warning sign by the road?
Yeah, it definitely caught my attention.
I wonder what the actual danger is, though.
Root Explanation
Warning → It originates from the Old English 'warnian' (meaning to give notice or to advise). The word 'warning' refers to the act of giving notice or advice about potential danger or harm.
Memory Tip
Think of someone giving you a 'notice' or 'advice' about something dangerous — that's what a warning is.
Visually Confused Words
waring
waning
wearing
warping
warming
warding
wanting
earning