Heads Up (noun & interjection)
Meaning: Look out; a warning.
Origin: This slangy interjection dates from the early 1900s. In the later 1900s, the noun form ‘heads-up’ was born with a similar meaning.
Examples:
- Interjection: “Heads up, John, that branch is about to hit the power line!”
- Noun: “Jen gave her manager a heads-up about the upcoming audit.”
In Literature: James Lee Burke had it in The Glass Rainbow (2010): “‘What’s on your mind?’ ‘Need to give you a heads-up. I got to get some guilt off my conscience as well.’”
Related terms, expressions, and idioms:
- Watch out: Be cautious or prepared for something.
- Beware: Be cautious and alert to the dangers of.
- Be on your guard: Remain vigilant and watchful.
- Heads will roll: People will be punished (often used humorously).
- Look alive: (dated) Use this phrase to prompt someone to be more alert or quick.
- Keep your head on a swivel: Stay very aware of everything happening around you.
Synonyms:
- Alert
- Caution
- Notice
- Warning
Antonyms:
- Unwarned
- Uninformed
- Oblivious
- Clueless
Proverb:
“Forewarned is forearmed.” Knowing about something unpleasant or dangerous in advance allows one to prepare for it.
Humor-filled Quote:
“Giving a ‘heads up’ at a golf course usually means your next word is ‘FORE!’ and then hitting the deck.” 🏌️♂️
Suggested Literature:
The Glass Rainbow by James Lee Burke
Song Recommendations:
- “Heads Up” by Karen O
Movie Recommendation:
- The Informant! (2009)—Occasional heads up scenes wrapped in Matt Damon’s comedic brilliance.
Inspirational Farewell: Remember, life’s too precious to miss the moments unless you miss them dodging a branch. Stay alert and keep your head up! ✉️📚
