diff --git a/docs/reference/operator.md b/docs/reference/operator.md
index 6a7bdafd3e..f527e0f2bd 100644
--- a/docs/reference/operator.md
+++ b/docs/reference/operator.md
@@ -1393,7 +1393,7 @@ See also: [countLines](#countlines)
 
 ## subscribe
 
-*Returns: the source channel*
+*Returns: nothing*
 
 The `subscribe` operator invokes a custom function for each item from a source channel:
 
@@ -1425,6 +1425,10 @@ The `subscribe` operator supports multiple types of event handlers:
 :language: console
 ```
 
+:::{note}
+Unlike most operators, `subscribe` is a *terminal operator* and does not emit any values. It should only be used for *side effects*, such as printing to the console, writing to a file, or making HTTP requests.
+:::
+
 Available options:
 
 `onNext`