beware

American  

[bih-wair] / bɪˈwɛər /

verb (used with object)

1. to be wary, cautious, or careful of (usually used imperatively).

   Beware such inconsistency. Beware his waspish wit.

---

verb (used without object)

1. to be cautious or careful.

   Beware of the dog.

beware British  

/ bɪˈwɛə /

verb

1. to be cautious or wary (of); be on one's guard (against)

---

Usage

What does beware mean? Beware means be careful or cautious—watch out for danger or other bad stuff.Beware is a command (or at least a suggestion). Sometimes, it’s used by itself, as in Beware! There are dark forces afoot! More commonly, it’s immediately followed by the specific thing you should beware of, as in Beware the words of politicians. Perhaps most commonly, it’s paired with the word of, such as on a sign that says Beware of cat. (You thought we were going to say Beware of dog, didn’t you? Stay alert, folks. Beware a wily dictionary.)Example: Before you enter the internet, there should be a sign that says “Beware of trolls.”

Etymology

Origin of beware

1150–1200; Middle English, from phrase of warning be ware. See be, ware ²

Example Sentences

Nobody paid much attention—we didn’t need a sign to make us beware of Gladys.

From Literature

At home, he warned citizens to beware of extreme partisanship.

From BBC

In the real economy, private contracts, “buyer beware” principles, and the prosecutions of fraudsters sustain a healthy ecosystem of bespoke arrangements.

From Barron's

“Tech investors beware! At least since 1990, once corporate cash dries up – the stock market’s technology miracle may suffer a pause,” says Paulsen.

From MarketWatch

Customs and Border Protection said consumers need to adopt a “buyer beware” attitude when purchasing an item from abroad because they will be responsible for making sure it complies with state and federal import regulations.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• heed
• take care