Forewarning Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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forewarning

[fɔːˈwɔːnɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in communication

A caution or warning in advance; an advance notice or foretelling of something that may happen.

Synonyms

foreshadowing, prediction, premonition, premonitory.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
forewarning	Forewarning is used when someone gives a notice or alert about a potential danger or problem. It is often seen in contexts where people are warned to be cautious. The weather service issued a forewarning about the incoming hurricane. Her forewarning about the potential for fraud saved the company a lot of trouble.
premonition	Premonition is used when someone has a strong feeling or sense that something, usually bad, is going to happen. It often suggests an intuitive or psychic sense of foreboding. He had a premonition that something terrible was about to happen. She couldn't shake off the premonition of danger, even though everything seemed fine.
foreshadowing	Foreshadowing is used in literature or storytelling to hint at events that will occur later in the narrative. It sets up expectations and builds suspense. The dark storm clouds in the first chapter were a classic foreshadowing of the turmoil to come. Her early struggles foreshadowed the greater challenges she would face later in her journey.
prediction	Prediction is used when making an educated guess about the future based on data, trends, or intuition. It is often used in scientific, economic, or everyday contexts. The economists made a prediction about the growth of the economy in the next quarter. She made a prediction that it would rain, based on the dark clouds gathering in the sky.
premonitory	Premonitory is used to describe something that serves as a warning or indicates a bad event in the future. It is more formal and often used in medical or scientific contexts. She experienced premonitory symptoms that hinted at the onset of the illness. The scientist noted the premonitory signs of the impending natural disaster.

Examples of usage

His forewarning about the potential risks of the investment saved us from making a costly mistake.
The weather forecast provided a forewarning of the approaching storm.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

in communication

To warn or caution in advance; to give advance notice or foretell of something that may happen.

Synonyms

caution, foretell, predict, prewarn.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
forewarning	Used when you want to give someone an advance notice of something that is going to happen, usually something bad. She gave him a forewarning about the upcoming storm. I appreciate the forewarning about the traffic jam.
prewarn	Similar to 'forewarning', but often implies a more casual or less formal notification about something that might happen. She prewarned her colleagues about the upcoming inspection. He prewarned his guests that the party might run late.
caution	Used when you want to advise someone to be careful and avoid potential danger or problems. The warning sign cautioned hikers about the steep trail ahead. He cautioned his friend against making hasty decisions.
foretell	Used when predicting or telling the future, often in a mystical or supernatural context. The fortune teller claimed she could foretell my future. Legends say the oracle could foretell the fate of empires.
predict	Used when forecasting a future event based on observation, analysis, or data. Scientists predict significant climate changes in the coming decade. Economists predict a rise in inflation next year.

Examples of usage

She forewarned him about the dangers of the hiking trail.
The teacher forewarned the students about the upcoming test.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

In literature, foreshadowing is a similar technique, where hints are given about what will happen later in a story.
Various authors, like Shakespeare and Edgar Allan Poe, skillfully used foreshadowing to create suspense.
Stories often include forewarnings to build tension and engage readers, making them wonder what might come next.

Science

Meteorologists often provide forewarnings about severe weather, helping people prepare for natural disasters.
In psychology, 'cognitive forewarning' may help individuals prepare for potential stressors or challenges.
Research shows that forewarning about a negative event can help mitigate anxiety by allowing individuals to plan responses.

Pop Culture

Many horror movies use forewarnings to create suspense, like eerie sounds or omens before danger strikes.
Video games often have a mechanic of forewarning players about in-game challenges or enemies, enhancing the gaming experience.
Songs and poetry combine forewarnings as thematic elements, subtly hinting at outcomes within their lyrics or verses.

History

Historically, early warning systems have been crucial in military strategies, providing troops with time to prepare.
The idea of forewarning was prevalent in ancient civilizations, where oracles or prophets provided warnings about future events.
Major events in history often began with forewarnings, such as the signs preceding natural disasters like earthquakes.

Origin of 'forewarning'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Old English 'forwarnian,' meaning to warn beforehand.
Its roots combine 'fore,' meaning before, and 'warn,' implying caution.
The term has existed in the English language since at least the 14th century.

The word 'forewarning' originated in the late 16th century, combining the prefix 'fore-' meaning 'before' with 'warning'. It has been used to convey the idea of providing advance notice or caution about potential events or situations. The term emphasizes the importance of being prepared and informed ahead of time, highlighting the value of foresight in decision-making and risk management.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,855 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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33852 inveigled
33853 deceitfulness
33854 polysemy
33855 forewarning
33856 putrefying
33857 hooped
33858 renege
...