cautionary

American  

[kaw-shuh-ner-ee] / ˈkɔ ʃəˌnɛr i /

adjective

1. of the nature of or containing a warning.

   cautionary advice; a cautionary tale.

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cautionary British  

/ ˈkɔːʃənərɪ /

adjective

1. serving as a warning; intended to warn

   a cautionary tale

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Etymology

Origin of cautionary

First recorded in 1590–1600; caution + -ary

Explanation

When something is cautionary, it’s meant to be a warning to you. Your parents might be fond of telling cautionary tales, like the one about the girl who got electrocuted sticking a knife into the toaster. While driving, look for cautionary signs warning you of potential danger: falling rocks, kids crossing, hidden driveway. You might use cautionary words: “Watch your step! There’s glass all over the floor!” Don’t confuse cautionary with cautious, which means trying to avoid danger. Tell a cautionary tale about someone drowning because he swam too far out into the ocean and an overly cautious kid might decide never to swim again.

Example Sentences

But that teaches another more cautionary lesson about collecting nemeses: Salieri never figured out how to channel his gnawing envy into motivation.

From Salon • May 16, 2026

I mean, the cautionary tale in a way for me is how well the intelligence committee often does work in the Senate.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 7, 2026

But a more cautionary story is beginning to emerge as investors wonder if the momentum is sustainable.

From MarketWatch • May 7, 2026

Watch the cautionary tale about the perils of the transfer portal turn into a fairy-tale comeback.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

Though she knew it was meant to be a cautionary tale, now that she had seen that fairy, she thought that Kathleen’s fate was not so cruel after all.

From "Ash" by Malinda Lo