01
warnen vor
to warn about
To make someone aware of an impending danger or a possible negative circumstance.
example
Die Wettervorhersage warnt vor starkem Sturm an der Küste.
The weather forecast is warning about a strong storm on the coast.
warnen
to warn
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Structure with 'vor'
The verb 'warnen' (to warn) often needs two complements: the person being warned (in the accusative) and the danger (with the preposition 'vor' + dative). The pattern is: 'jemanden vor etwas warnen' (to warn someone about something).
EXAMPLE
Ärzte warnen die Bevölkerung vor einer neuen Grippewelle.
Doctors are warning the population about a new wave of flu.
Typical dangers
In the meaning 'to point out a danger', 'warnen' (to warn) is often combined with general risks or negative events. Common combinations are 'vor den Folgen warnen' (to warn about the consequences), 'vor einem Fehler warnen' (to warn about a mistake), or 'vor Betrug warnen' (to warn about fraud).
EXAMPLE
Die Expertin warnte eindringlich vor den wirtschaftlichen Folgen der Krise.
The expert urgently warned about the economic consequences of the crisis.
Direct warning
As a personal warning, 'warnen' (to warn) is often used in direct speech. It is frequently followed by a subordinate clause or an infinitive construction that explains what should not be done.
EXAMPLE
Ich warne dich, mich noch einmal anzulügen!
I'm warning you not to lie to me again!
Compare with
warnen vs drohen
to threaten
'drohen' and 'warnen' are easy to confuse because both have to do with possible negative consequences. 'drohen' means that someone is applying pressure, or that something bad is likely to happen. 'warnen' means that someone draws attention to a danger, often in order to help. Someone who 'droht' creates fear or applies pressure. Someone who 'warnt' points out a risk. In some situations, a warning can sound strict, but it is not automatically a threat.
warnen
Die Ärztin warnt den Patienten vor den Folgen von zu wenig Schlaf.
The doctor warns the patient about the effects of too little sleep.
drohen
Der Vermieter droht mit einer Kündigung, wenn die Miete nicht bezahlt wird.
The landlord threatens to terminate the lease if the rent is not paid.
In real life
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