View synonyms for

cautionary tale

[ kaw-shuh-ner-ee teyl ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

a story, experience, or situation that serves as a warning to others:
The malware's devastating effect on her files became a cautionary tale about the importance of antivirus software.

Discover More

Word History and Origins

Origin of cautionary tale¹

First recorded in 1810–20

Discover More

Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

Her attorney, Gary Gwilliam, described the case as “a cautionary tale.”

From

The resurgence of measles serves as a cautionary tale for allowing bureaucratic maneuvering to undermine the integrity of vaccine policy and public health.

From

“The Friend” is a decent film, but it’s even more effective as a cautionary tale for new dog owners.

From

And while “The Friend” is a decent film — a heartwarming but narratively slight story of the similar ways humans and dogs grieve — it’s even more effective as a cautionary tale for new dog owners.

From

“But it's a cautionary tale to stay Snow White.”

From

cautionary caution money

Browse