Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈkæv.i.æt/

Definitions

• Noun: A warning or proviso of specific stipulations, conditions, or limitations.
• A legal notice or caution given to prevent misunderstanding or misinterpretation.

Usage Examples

• He accepted the deal with the caveat that the project may face delays.
• The contract included a caveat about potential risks.
• She agreed to the partnership, but her caveat was that certain conditions must be met.

Etymology

Derived from Latin, "caveat" is the third-person singular form of the verb "cavere," meaning "to beware." The term entered English in the 16th century and was used in legal contexts to indicate a warning or caution.

Synonyms

• Warning
• Alert
• Condition
• Proviso
• Exception

Antonyms

• Guarantee
• Assurance
• Certainty
• Reassurance

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The word "caveat" may be pronounced with slight variations depending on the accent or dialect. In some regions, the emphasis may be placed more strongly on the first syllable, while in others it may be more balanced.

Historical Usage

The term "caveat" has been in use since the 16th century, with its primary usage in legal contexts, where it was employed to indicate a warning or notice of a potential issue or condition that should be taken into account.

Cultural Nuances

In modern contexts, a caveat often implies a condition or limitation to an agreement or understanding. It is frequently used in business, law, and casual conversations to indicate that while something may seem favorable, there are important conditions to consider. The cultural importance of "caveat" underscores the necessity of caution and understanding the fine print in agreements or promises.

More Information

The word "caveat" plays an important role in legal and formal language. It often represents an important reminder or warning about the potential risks or issues associated with a certain action or decision. In daily language, it is used to indicate that conditions, exceptions, or limitations should be understood before proceeding with an agreement or decision. This highlights the importance of fully comprehending terms and making informed choices.