Lindsay McMahon
"The English Adventurer"

We all hit stumbling blocks at work.

This may be a policy, a project or the actions of a coworker.

It can be hard to express yourself about limitations or roadblocks at work.

Listen to today’s episode and learn how you can articulate concerns about restrictions.

Warn work colleagues

Michelle asks Lindsay if she has ever had to warn people that something may go wrong so that they can anticipate and make plans.

Lindsay answers that she has definitely had to do this.

Nobody wants to be blindsided by being unaware of things that would ruin or hinder their plans at work.

Therefore, it is crucial to communicate any potential problems ahead of time to colleagues.

This way, they can come up with a plan to address it before it happens.

Today’s episode is inspired by a listener’s question.

Lindsay and Michelle are going to talk about a very high level word.

Today’s question

Hi Lindsay and Michelle. I’ve been listening to your podcast for two years! You’re doing an outstanding job! Thank you so much!

My question is about the use of the word caveat! Sending you blessings!

Antonio Fattore22

You can check out similar episodes like BE 274: Should You Call Someone Inept? Vocabulary to Avoid in Business English.

In this episode, you learn vocabulary to better communicate in the workplace.

Caveats, stipulations, or limitations

Antonio asked about the word ‘caveat.’

According to the Cambridge dictionary, this means a warning to consider something before doing anything further.

It can refer to a specific limitation of something such as information or an agreement.

This word is very professional-sounding and good for personal life as well as business.

It’s especially good for business discussions.

Lindsay and Michelle mention that there are other definitions, but it’s best to focus on the general meaning which is shared in today’s episode.

This will lessen the confusion because this word is pretty tricky.

Here are some examples using the word ‘caveat’ to mean limited or restricted:

  • We are all ready for the meeting, with one caveat- the agendas can’t be printed until 9 a.m.
  • The marketing budget is all set- but there is a caveat. We can’t use it without approval from the team.
  • We do have to include the caveat that some of these stats were taken in different parts of the country.
  • Keeping in mind the caveat- the lack of budget for the tech we need- I think we can still work hard and get this done.

Similar words to ‘caveat’

Take note that this term is used to give a piece of caution or maybe an exception.

You want the person to know there is something to keep in mind or a rule they need to consider.

Here are other words you can use with similar meanings.

#1: Limitation

Example:
We should be fine, but we have to recognize we do have some limitations regarding staff.

#2: Stipulation

Example:
There are some stipulations we have to remember with our budget.

Roleplay

Here is a roleplay using today’s lesson.

In this scenario, Lindsay and Michelle are planning a team meeting.

Lindsay: So I think everyone responded that they can come.
Michelle: Great! We do have some stipulations regarding space.
Lindsay: Oh! I meant to tell you that Paul said we could use the larger conference room, with the caveat that we have to be out by 3:00 p.m. latest because there’s another meeting.
Michelle: Oh that should be fine! Great news. It’s so hard to deal with the limitations sometimes in these conference rooms.
Lindsay: I know.

Takeaway

The word ‘caveat’ is a pretty versatile and complicated word, and is definitely useful in business or formal settings.

Try using it out in your workplace discussions.

You will sound very professional and high-level, especially when talking about contracts and other business negotiations.

Always find ways to add more advanced English vocabulary to your arsenal to improve your English skills.

Have you ever had to explain certain limitations in the workplace?

Share your story in the comments below.

  • Badges (1)
  • Badges-1 (1)
  • Badges-2 (1)
  • US_ListenOn_AmazonMusic_button_black_RGB_5X
  • App-Store-Button
  • google-play-badge
  • Badges (1)
  • Badges-1 (1)
  • Badges-2 (1)
  • US_ListenOn_AmazonMusic_button_black_RGB_5X