VocabDictionary

stern caution

/stɜːrn ˈkɔːʃən/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

A serious, firm, and authoritative warning given to someone regarding their behavior or a potential risk.

Example Sentences:
  • The supervisor issued a stern caution to the employees regarding the strict safety protocols in the laboratory.
  • After the near-accident, the pilot received a stern caution from air traffic control.
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Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “stern caution”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

The term combines 'stern' (from Old English 'styrne', meaning severe or strict) and 'caution' (from Latin 'cautio', meaning care or foresight). Together, they evolved in Middle English and Early Modern English to describe a formal, serious warning issued to prevent error or danger.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a 'stern' teacher standing at the 'caution' sign, looking very serious while telling you to slow down.

Frequently Asked Questions About “stern caution

1. What is the meaning of “stern caution” in English?

In English, stern caution (noun) is defined as: “A serious, firm, and authoritative warning given to someone regarding their behavior or a potential risk.”.

2. How do you use “stern caution” in a sentence?

The supervisor issued a stern caution to the employees regarding the strict safety protocols in the laboratory.

3. What are English synonyms of “stern caution”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “stern caution”?

The term combines 'stern' (from Old English 'styrne', meaning severe or strict) and 'caution' (from Latin 'cautio', meaning care or foresight). Together, they evolved in Middle English and Early Modern English to describe a formal, serious warning issued to prevent error or danger.