The phrase "gave fair warning" is usually pronounced as /ɡeɪv/ /feər/ /ˈwɔːrnɪŋ/ in British English and /ɡeɪv/ /fɛr/ /ˈwɔrnɪŋ/ in American English. The phonetic transcription shows that the "a" in "gave" is pronounced as a long "a" sound. The "ai" in "fair" is pronounced similarly to "eɪ" and the "e" in "warning" is pronounced as a short "e" sound. The spelling of the phrase is straightforward and follows typical English phonetics. The phrase means someone provided a clear warning in advance of a potential danger or threat.
"Gave fair warning" is an idiomatic expression that means to provide someone with clear and honest notification or notice beforehand, typically in relation to a potential consequence, action, or event. It implies that the warning was thorough, impartial, and just. This phrase is often used to describe situations in which individuals or authorities make a deliberate effort to ensure that others are fully informed about the impending result or outcome of their actions.
To "give fair warning" implies that adequate information and instructions have been provided to prevent any claim of ignorance or lack of awareness. It suggests that the individuals or authorities responsible for providing the warning have acted in a responsible and conscientious manner, ensuring the safety, well-being, or rights of others are maintained by offering a prior alert.
The phrase "gave fair warning" carries a connotation of fairness and impartiality in the sense that the warning is transparent and unbiased. It suggests that the person issuing the warning has fulfilled their duty to notify others, thereby absolving themselves from any blame and placing the responsibility on the person who received the warning but chose to proceed anyway.
The term can be applied to various contexts, including legal, interpersonal, or even natural phenomena, where someone issues a timely caution to prevent any unexpected harm or misunderstanding. In any case, "gave fair warning" emphasizes the notion of providing ethical and justifiable communication before a particular action or event occurs.