- A proverb stating that knowing about a potential problem or danger in advance allows one to prepare for it effectively.
Explanation
Origin
- Derived from the Latin proverb Praemonitus, praemunitus.
- It has been used in English since at least the 16th century.
- Forewarned means warned in advance.
- Forearmed means armed or prepared in advance.
- The idea is that advance knowledge is like having weapons or defenses ready.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Good lookin' out. (Thanks for the warning)
- Gotta be ready.
- Better knowin' than not knowin'.
More Formal:
- Advance knowledge facilitates preparation.
- Prior notification allows for contingency planning.
Situational Appropriateness
- Appropriate in most contexts, from informal chats to formal discussions about planning and risk management. It's a well-respected proverb.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Generally well-understood. The metaphorical link between warning and 'arming' is clear.
Examples
- Thanks for telling me the interviewer is tough. Forewarned is forearmed – I'll prepare extra hard.
- They predict heavy snow tomorrow, but forewarned is forearmed. We bought extra groceries today.
Dialogue
Sarah: My cousin said the traffic near the stadium is going to be terrible on Saturday.
Ben: Oh, really? Good to know. Forewarned is forearmed. We should take the train instead.
Sarah: My thoughts exactly.
Social Media Examples
- Post about cybersecurity threats: Read this article about the latest phishing scams. Scary stuff, but forewarned is forearmed. Stay vigilant! #cybersecurity #scamalert
- Comment on weather forecast: Looks like a big storm is coming this weekend. Forewarned is forearmed, time to secure the garden furniture! #weather #beprepared
Response Patterns
- Agreement: Exactly. / That's true. / Good point. / Wise words.
- Gratitude (if receiving warning): Thanks for the heads-up. / Good to know.
- Action-oriented: Right, so what's the plan? / Okay, let's get prepared.
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
- After hearing it (as advice): The listener usually acknowledges the wisdom and might discuss preparations (So, what should we do?).
- After saying it (after giving a warning): Might lead into discussing preparations (So, maybe we should leave earlier?).
Conversation Starter
- No. It's a comment on the value of advance warning.
Intonation
- Spoken as a statement of accepted wisdom.
- Often balanced emphasis on Forewarned and forearmed.
- FOREWARNED is FOREARMED.
Generation Differences
- Understood by all generations, though perhaps used more often by older generations or in more formal contexts. Younger people understand it but might phrase the idea differently.
Regional Variations
- Common across all major English-speaking regions.