ENGLISH
REFERENCE

woe to

idiom
Meaning

Used to warn someone of trouble or danger if they carry out a certain risky action.


Examples
SIMPLE

Woe to anyone who touches my lunch in the office fridge.

CONTEXTUAL

The sign warned that woe to those who park in this spot, as their cars will be towed immediately.

COMPLEX

The ancient prophecy declared that woe to the kingdom that ignores the signs of the coming storm, for destruction will surely follow.

Anchors to
Related idioms1entry
  1. 01

    woe betide

    Used to warn someone that trouble will occur if that person does something: bad things will happen to.

© 2026 English Reference