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.

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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)

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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

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

The run-up to the year-end holiday period has come with big gains for precious metals, but one UBS strategist says investor beware.

From The Wall Street Journal

Bargain hunters, beware: You often get what you pay for.

From Barron's

Pro tip: If you’ll be traveling by train, beware the unexpected challenge of many, many stairs at the stations.

From Los Angeles Times

Job hunters should also beware that scammers are using AI to promote and conduct interviews for fake jobs - asking for money for bogus training or equipment.

From BBC

Related Words

• heed
• take care