cautionary
Definitions
Serving as a warning; intended to make people take heed of a danger or mistake
警示性的，告诫的（旨在让人警惕危险或错误）
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedcaut (from cavēre 'to beware') + -ion (act) + -ary (relating to) = 'relating to a warning.' This draws on the *warning* sense of caution rather than the *carefulness* sense: something cautionary is meant to make others beware.
Root caut still carries 4 more wordsUsage Guide
Overwhelmingly used in the fixed phrase a cautionary tale — a story (real or fictional) told to warn others against repeating someone's mistake. Also seen in cautionary note and cautionary reminder. It almost always modifies a noun about telling or showing, not a person.
Example Sentences
- 1.
His bankruptcy became a cautionary tale for young entrepreneurs.
- 2.
The documentary serves as a cautionary reminder about climate change.
- 3.
She added a cautionary note about the drug's side effects.