Varoittaa

Varoittaa is the Finnish verb meaning to warn or to caution someone about a potential danger, risk, or undesirable course of action. It is used to alert another person or group to take care, avoid a behavior, or prepare for a possible outcome. The action can concern physical danger, health and safety, or moral and practical considerations, and it is commonly found in everyday speech as well as official safety and advisory communications.

Etymology and forms: Varoittaa is derived from the noun varoitus, meaning warning. The verb form is used with a recipient and the content of the warning, and it belongs to the common class of Finnish -taa verbs. Related words include varoitus (warning), varoitusmerkki (warning sign), and varoitusilmoitus (warning notice). The language also employs the passive and infinitive forms, such as varoitettu (warned) and varoitettavana (to be warned), depending on the sentence structure.

Usage and examples: The verb is versatile in tense and voice. Examples include: “Minä varoitan sinua tästä,” meaning I warn you about this. “Häntä varoitettiin vaarasta,” meaning He/She was warned about the danger. In formal contexts, organizations may issue warnings, e.g., “Ilmatieteen laitos varoitti ukkosmyrskystä” (The Meteorological Institute warned of the thunderstorm).

See also: In Finnish usage, varoittaminen and varoitus are common related terms, with varoitus often appearing in safety instructions, news reports, weather alerts, and public advisories.