uwaga

Uwaga is a Polish noun and interjection with several related senses centered on attentiveness and caution. As a noun it denotes attention, caution, or consideration. As an exclamation, Uwaga! is used to call attention or warn of danger, comparable to “Attention!” or “Watch out!” in English. The plural form uwagi means remarks, notes, or comments in written text. In everyday language the word can appear in phrases such as “zwróć uwagę” (pay attention) or “uwaga, niebezpieczeństwo” (warning, danger).

Usage and contexts

Uwaga is widely used in signage, announcements, and official communications to highlight important information or hazards. Common examples include signs like “Uwaga! Pracujący młot pneumatyczny” (Attention! Pneumatic hammer in operation) or instructions that begin with “Uwaga:…” to flag cautions or exceptions. In written documents, the heading “Uwagi” introduces remarks, clarifications, or notes from editors, readers, or authors.

Etymology and related forms

The word derives from the verb uważać, meaning “to pay attention” or “to consider.” The noun reflects the act or state of paying heed. Related forms include uwaga as the singular and uwagi as the plural (notes or remarks). The term is closely linked to broader Slavic word families expressing attention, caution, and consideration.

Translations and nuances

In English, the appropriate translation of uwaga depends on context: it can be “attention,” “warning,” “caution,” or “note/remark.” The imperative interjection Uwaga! is most often rendered as “Attention!” or “Watch out!”

See also

Uwagi, Uważaj, Uwaga (exclamation), Warning signs, Polish language.