Beware Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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beware
[bɪˈwɛr ]
Definition
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
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Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- The phrase 'Beware of Dog' is commonly seen and serves as a warning to keep out.
- In literature and films, characters often encounter signs that say 'Beware,' signaling danger ahead.
- Music and art often use 'beware' to convey themes of caution and alerts against threats.
Psychology
- Cautioning others to 'beware' triggers an instinctual fight-or-flight response, guiding human behavior in risky situations.
- Warnings that use 'beware' can create heightened awareness, making people more observant of their surroundings.
- The effectiveness of warnings often relies on how prominently the message 'beware' is presented.
Literature
- In Shakespeare's plays, the notion of 'beware' appears in various forms, often hinting at impending doom.
- Classic horror stories sometimes use 'beware' as a motif to build suspense and foreshadow danger.
- The use of 'beware' in folklore often serves to teach moral lessons about vigilance and caution.
Origin of 'beware'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'beware' comes from Old English 'bewarwian,' which means 'to keep a watch on.'
- In Middle English, it evolved to 'bewaren' which included cautions against harm.
- The prefix 'be-' emphasizes the state of being, while 'ware' means to watch out or guard.
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.