Caveat – (n.) a warning concerning specific conditions, limitations, or stipulations
[kav-ee-aht, -at, kah-vee-, key-]
Caveat is a word taken straight from Latin, meaning literally “let him/her beware”. While originally was used as a verb, it tends to be quite awkward sounding in English if we use it as a verb.
We often use caveat near the end of a sentence or statement as a way to describe a potential negative case for an argument or idea. Let’s look at a few examples of it in use.
Here’s one use of spin-off from Business Insider about ways to make your schedule less stressful using a field of economics called “behavioral economics” using an idea called “cancel elation”:
“Ask yourself how you would feel if you accepted an invitation and then found out it had been canceled.”
…
There is an important caveat to this trick. You probably shouldn’t use it at the office
Here’s another example from Bloomberg News, discussing U.S. stocks being overvalued:
Stocks don’t have to collapse from current levels, but it’s always a possibility. The comfort of cash sounds like an intelligent strategy, but there are two caveats.
You might see caveat used in the following:
Caveat emptor — (expression) this is another Latin phrase meaning “let the buyer beware”. Often used as a warning to anyone buying something that might have unforeseen issues or problems.
Caveat loan — (phrasal noun) an amount of money loaned or borrowed for a short time to cover expenses until new funds become available. Similar meaning to bridge loan