Admonition
noun /ˌæd.məˈnɪʃ.ən/ — A gentle warning or reprimand
Definition
A gentle but firm warning — a reprimand given with more care than anger, designed to correct rather than punish. The reproof of someone who still expects better.
Beyond the definition
Correction from someone who cares. An admonition is warmer than a reprimand — it comes from the position that you could do better, rather than that you have failed completely.
Origin & history
From Latin 'admonitio' (a warning, reminder) — from 'admonere' (to remind, warn) — 'ad' (to) + 'monere' (to warn, advise). Related to 'monitor' and 'premonition'. A directed reminder.
Example sentences
Illustrative sentences for learning, not verified community posts or sourced quotations.
The admonition was gentle — a single raised eyebrow rather than a speech — but it was clearly understood.
Parental admonition has a particular quality: it warns you against mistakes the parent has already made.
The judge delivered her admonition to the jury with the specificity of someone who had seen what happened when juries forgot.
How to use it
This entry uses a noun. Follow the examples for articles and singular or plural forms; not every noun takes “a” or “an.”
Choose “Admonition” when the meaning fits your context: A gentle but firm warning — a reprimand given with more care than anger, designed to correct rather than punish. The reproof of someone who still expects better.
Synonyms
warning, caution, reproof, counsel, rebuke
Antonyms
praise, encouragement, commendation
Related words
Word in the Wild
See how this word appears in life, language and stories.
Illustrative sentences and imagined stories for learning — not verified sightings, interviews, or sourced quotations.
Fictional scene
Pause During Disagreement
Two people argue at a table; one leans back and raises an open hand to pause, seeking a change in conduct.
The gesture of raising a hand to pause the argument is a corrective act that expects better behavior from the other, acting as a soft admonition.
Image credit: Wordspun · AI-generated conceptual illustration
Questions about this word
What does "Admonition" mean?
Admonition is noun meaning: A gentle warning or reprimand. A gentle but firm warning — a reprimand given with more care than anger, designed to correct rather than punish. The reproof of someone who still expects better.
Where does the word "Admonition" come from?
From Latin 'admonitio' (a warning, reminder) — from 'admonere' (to remind, warn) — 'ad' (to) + 'monere' (to warn, advise). Related to 'monitor' and 'premonition'. A directed reminder.