Main Difference – Beware vs Be Aware
Beware and be aware are two words that many use interchangeably. However, despite looking and sounding the same, beware and be aware have different meanings. Beware means to be cautious and alert to danger whereas be aware means to have knowledge or perception of a situation or fact. This is the main difference between beware and be aware. We’ll be looking at all these differences between beware and be aware in this article.
Beware – Meaning and Usage
Beware is an adjective. It means to be cautious or to be careful. It warns of danger or trouble. For example, you might have noticed the message ‘beware of the dog’ displayed in front of some houses. This is a warning to make people cautious or careful. ‘Beware’ is also displayed on towers that supply electricity. Beware is often associated with danger.
We were advised to beware of pickpockets.
Beware! Dangerous path ahead.
You should beware the consequences of your deed.
Beware of the dog.
Beware of strong currents.
He cautioned us to beware of using cheap makeup.
Beware of his horrible temper.
He warned us to beware of the hooded man.
As seen from the above examples, beware is often followed by the preposition of. But it can also be directly followed by an object.
Be Aware – Meaning and Usage
The meaning of be aware is somewhat similar to the meaning of beware, but it is not associated with danger, unlike beware. It is also comprised of two words the infinitive be and the verb aware. In addition, be aware is an advice, which makes it an imperative sentence. Be aware means to have knowledge or perception of a situation or fact.
Be aware of what is happening around you.
You should be aware of your consumer rights.
Be aware of the traffic rules before you get your license.
Please be aware of our rules and regulations.
Every smoker should be aware of the effects of smoking.
I think every child should be aware of their right to receive an education.
Difference Between Beware and Be Aware
Grammatical Category
Beware is a verb.
Be Aware is an imperative form.
Meaning
Beware means to be cautious and alert to danger.
Be Aware means to have knowledge or perception of a situation or fact.
Connotations
Beware is always associated with danger.
Be Aware is not associated with danger.
Warning
Beware is a warning.
Be Aware is not a warning, it’s just an advice.
Image Courtesy:
“Beware” byMicolo J (CC BY 2.0) via Flickr
“Human rights. Indonesia 2009. Photo: Josh Estey” by The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (CC BY 2.0) via Flickr