Definitions

1. adjective

given or serving to give warning of a danger or risk

“The company’s new safety guidelines were seen as a cautionary measure to reduce workplace accidents.”

2. noun

a warning or a cautionary message

“The author’s novel contained a series of cautionary tales about the dangers of addiction.”

3. adverb

in a warning or cautionary manner

“She spoke cautionary words to her children about the dangers of talking to strangers.”