caution
KAW-shuhn
/ˈkɔːʃən/
A formal warning given to a player or offender; (as a verb) to warn someone formally.
Represents a yellow-card level warning—a serious alert that further misconduct will result in severe punishment, without imposing immediate expulsion.
The story behind the word. The Latin verb 'cavere' meant to beware or take care. It is the source of the famous Latin phrase 'caveat emptor' (let the buyer beware). In sports, a caution is a formal demand that a player start 'taking care' of how they play.
Word relationships
- warning: Warning is a general term, while caution is often a formal, recorded disciplinary action in sports and law.
- admonition: An admonition is a gentle or friendly correction, whereas a caution is an official disciplinary warning.
- commendation: A commendation is formal praise or approval given to someone.
Commonly confused with
- cautious: Cautious is the adjective meaning careful, while caution is the noun (warning/care) or verb (to warn).
Word family
- cautious (adjective): Careful to avoid potential problems or dangers.
- cautionary (adjective): Serving as a warning.
Collocations
- issue a caution
- receive a caution
- caution a player
Idioms & expressions
- throw caution to the wind (to act recklessly)
Example sentences
- "The referee decided to issue a yellow card as a caution rather than sending the player off." Soccer refereeing
- "Before the game, the official cautioned both coaches about unsportsmanlike behavior on the sidelines." Pre-match warnings
Memory hook
A 'caution' is a yellow light—it tells you to slow down and be careful before you get a red light. The yellow light of warning.
When not to use
Do not use as a verb for casual advice (e.g., 'I cautioned him to wear a coat' is very formal; 'warned' or 'advised' is better).
Fun facts
- The system of yellow (caution) and red (ejection) cards was inspired by traffic lights and was first used at the 1970 FIFA World Cup to overcome language barriers between referees and players.
Related words
Explore more words
admonish, chastisement, censure, reprimand, infraction, counsel
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