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give someone a heads up
/ɡɪv ˈsʌmwʌn ə ˈhɛdz ʌp/◆phrasal verb
warn someone in advance
Please give me a heads up before the meeting starts.
Please warn me before the meeting begins.
informal
to warn someone in advance about something that might happen or needs attention
The manager gave the team a heads up about the upcoming deadline.
The manager warned the team about the upcoming deadline.
Can you give me a heads up if the client calls?
Can you warn me if the client calls?
Often used in workplaces or social settings to alert someone about a potential issue or upcoming event.
Collocations
give someone a heads up about somethinginform someone in advance about a specific mattergive someone a heads up on somethinginform someone in advance about a specific matter
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Common Mistakes
Avoid using 'give a heads up' without an object (e.g., 'give a heads up' is incorrect; use 'give someone a heads up' or 'give a heads up about something').
Gold Rule
Usage Context
Use 'give someone a heads up' when you want to inform someone casually or informally about something that might affect them.
Word Origin
The phrase originated in the early 20th century, likely from the literal action of tipping one's hat (as a signal) or from nautical terminology where 'heads' referred to the bow of a ship. The phrase evolved to mean providing advance notice.
Usage Notes
This phrase is commonly used in both casual and professional contexts. It implies a friendly or informal warning rather than a formal notification.
Word Breakdown
give
to provide or deliver
verbsomeone
a person receiving the information
pronouna heads up
advance notice or warning
noun phraseEnglish Dictionary