Definitions

cautionary tale

[kaw-shuh-ner-ee teyl] / ˈkɔ ʃəˌnɛr i ˈteɪl /

NOUN

piece of advice

Synonyms

WEAK

a few words of wisdom admonition advisory caution light caveat deterrent example enough said event illustrating a hazard forewarning hint lesson message moral omen portent red flag sign of things to come wake-up call warning word to the wise

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

This is a cautionary tale for anyone contemplating giving away their legal agency.

From MarketWatch

The state’s uphill battle to draw insurers back could prove a template—or cautionary tale—for other disaster-prone states.

From The Wall Street Journal

California’s uphill battle to draw insurers back could prove a template—or cautionary tale—for other disaster-prone states.

From The Wall Street Journal

Remembering this makes “Reality Check” a cautionary tale for those seeking a role model in someone who is never going to make room for anyone else in her VIP section.

From Salon

Growing up in the Bay Area, Liu was known first as a child prodigy, then as a cautionary tale about the toll that elite sports can take on young athletes.

From The Wall Street Journal