Cautioned
/ˈkɔːʃənd/
Definitions
To warn someone to be careful or to avoid something dangerous or unpleasant.
/ˈkɔːʃənd/
To warn someone about a possible danger or problem.
She cautioned him against the risks involved.
💡 Simply: To give someone a warning to be careful.
👶 For kids: To tell someone, 'Be careful!'
More Examples
The doctor cautioned her about the side effects of the medication.
How It's Used
"The teacher cautioned the students about the dangers of playing near the road."
"The lawyer cautioned his client against making any further statements to the press."
From Middle English *causionen, from Old French *cauchoner ('to tread cautiously'), from cauchon ('a clog, a wooden shoe'). The sense evolved to imply carefulness and warning.
Historically, the word's emphasis on carefulness and tread was stronger. The modern usage focusing on warning is a later development.
Memory tip
Think of 'caution' as a warning sign.