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heed

English → EnglishformalliteraryInstant · from the shared dictionary
Illustration of "heed": To "heed" means to pay close attention to advice, a warning, or a suggestion and to act upon it. It

What does "heed" mean?

To "heed" means to pay close attention to advice, a warning, or a suggestion and to act upon it. It goes beyond simple hearing; it implies a deliberate choice to take the information seriously and incorporate it into your subsequent actions or decisions. It is a formal, slightly old-fashioned term often found in literature, instructions, or serious warnings. You will frequently see it used in phrases like "heed the warning" or "heed my words," where the speaker is emphasizing the importance or potential consequences of ignoring the message.

"heed" in conversation

A mentor giving advice

You must heed the lessons of the past, or you are doomed to repeat them.

You must pay attention to the lessons of the past, or you are doomed to repeat them.

I understand. I will be more careful this time.

I understand. I will be more careful this time.

Used here to emphasize the weight of the advice.

Hiking warning

Make sure you heed the weather warnings before heading up the mountain.

Make sure you pay attention to the weather warnings before heading up the mountain.

Good point, I'll check the forecast right now.

Good point, I'll check the forecast right now.

Commonly paired with 'warning' or 'advice'.

"heed" in a sentence

  1. Please heed my advice.

    Please pay attention to and follow my advice.

  2. The captain failed to heed the warnings about the storm.

    The captain failed to pay attention to the warnings about the storm.

  3. Those who heed the call of adventure often find their lives forever changed.

    Those who pay serious attention to the call of adventure often find their lives forever changed.

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