Beware: meaning, definitions and examples

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beware

 

[ bɪˈwɛr ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

warning alert

Beware means to be cautious or to watch out for something that may be dangerous or threatening. It is often used as a precautionary term, alerting someone to avoid a potential harm or risk. This word can be found in signs, warnings, and advisories. It emphasizes the importance of paying attention to surroundings to prevent danger.

Synonyms

be vigilant, caution, heed, watch out

Examples of usage

  • Beware of dog.
  • Please beware of icy sidewalks.
  • Beware, this area is known for pickpockets.
  • Beware of falling rocks.

Translations

Translations of the word "beware" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cuidado

🇮🇳 सावधान रहें

🇩🇪 vorsichtig

🇮🇩 waspada

🇺🇦 обережно

🇵🇱 uważaj

🇯🇵 注意する

🇫🇷 attention

🇪🇸 cuidado

🇹🇷 dikkat et

🇰🇷 조심하세요

🇸🇦 احذر

🇨🇿 pozor

🇸🇰 dávaj pozor

🇨🇳 小心

🇸🇮 pazi

🇮🇸 varaðu

🇰🇿 сақ болыңыз

🇬🇪 ყურადღება

🇦🇿 diqqət

🇲🇽 cuidado

Word origin

The word 'beware' is derived from the Middle English word 'biware', which in turn comes from the Old English 'bewarian', meaning 'to guard against or to be cautious'. The prefix 'be-' in this context suggests a state of being, while 'ware' is related to being aware of something. It has its roots in Proto-Germanic '*wazijan', meaning to be cautious or to take care. Historically, 'beware' has been used in various texts and literature, often appearing on signs and warnings to alert individuals to potential dangers. Over time, it has retained its essential meaning of caution and vigilance, remaining relevant in modern language and safety instructions.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,498, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.