cautionary tale

[ kaw-shuh-ner-ee teyl ]

noun

1. 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.

Word History and Origins

Origin of cautionary tale¹

First recorded in 1810–20

Example Sentences

Having read the book, it’s hard to imagine a better fit for the cautionary tale of “The Substance.”

From Los Angeles Times

Ultimately, “The Apprentice” is a cautionary tale as much as it is an origin story.

From Salon

And yet, the “before and after” of R.E.M.’s career became for its hardcore fans a cautionary tale about a band gaining the world and losing its soul — a charge that Carlin regards as grossly unfair and misguided.

From Los Angeles Times

No one could, and that should serve as a cautionary tale.

From Salon

Gascón’s turn as district attorney is a cautionary tale, according to Dan Schnur, a former advisor to Republican politicians who now teaches political communications at USC.

From Los Angeles Times