Giving Warning: English Vocabulary List

used to suggest that it is important to be wary of situations that appear calm and quiet on the surface, as they may conceal hidden dangers or threats

"Quiet people can be dangerous — beware of a silent dog and still water."

"He rarely spoke in meetings but manoeuvred carefully behind the scenes — beware of a silent dog and still water."

used to imply that being informed or aware of a potential danger or problem in advance allows one to be better prepared to deal with it

"Knowing a risk is coming helps you prepare — forewarned is forearmed."

"The intelligence report came in just in time — forewarned is forearmed."

used to emphasize that it is important to be prepared and have the necessary skills before engaging in a potentially dangerous or risky activity

"Learn before you swim."

"You should not go near the water until you learn how to swim, or you might get into danger."

used to suggest that it is important to be aware of potential risks or shortcomings when dealing with individuals who may lack experience or who may be past their prime

"Inexperienced experts and overconfident professionals are both dangerous — beware of the young doctor and the old barber."

"The board ignored the warning and hired an untested CEO — beware of the young doctor and the old barber."

used to suggest that it is important to be cautious and gentle in one's approach, particularly in situations where there may be potential obstacles or challenges

"Drive gently over stones."

"One should drive gently over the stones to avoid damaging the car and ensure a safe journey."

used to suggest that even if a situation may seem harmless or amusing, it is important to take proper precautions and be mindful of potential risks or dangers to prevent serious harm or injury

"Fun is fine until it causes harm — it is all fun and games until someone loses an eye."

"The office pranks were tolerated until someone was genuinely upset — it is all fun and games until someone loses an eye."

used to advise people to be cautious of accepting gifts from those who may have ulterior motives or hidden intentions, especially when the gift giver may be an adversary or enemy

"Beware of gifts."

"The old saying beware of Greeks bearing gifts means you should not trust enemies who pretend to be friendly."

used to warn people to think carefully about their desires, as the things they wish for may have unforeseen and unintended consequences

"Be careful what you wish for."

"You should be careful what you wish for because it might actually come true."

used to imply that when dealing with morally corrupt or untrustworthy individuals, one should be cautious and take measures to protect oneself from potential harm or negative consequences

"Be careful who you deal with — he who sups with the devil should have a long spoon."

"She entered the partnership cautiously — he who sups with the devil should have a long spoon."

used to suggest that it is important to take precautions and avoid situations that may quickly become out of control or difficult to manage

"Do not start a conflict you cannot finish — kindle not a fire you cannot put out."

"He issued an ultimatum he was not prepared to follow through — kindle not a fire you cannot put out."

used to suggest that one should be cautious and take measured steps when approaching a new or unfamiliar situation

"Don't test water depth."

"You should not measure the depth of the river with both feet before understanding the risks involved."