Precarious state

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Precarious state" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation that is unstable, uncertain, or risky, often implying that it could change or worsen at any moment. Example: "The economy is in a precarious state, with rising unemployment and inflation rates causing concern among citizens."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Ms. Duke said that consumers remained in a precarious state.

The New York Times

World War II left British theatre in a precarious state.

Encyclopedia Britannica

At midcentury, American string playing was in a precarious state.

The New York Times

Many have, until now, lived in a precarious state.

The New Yorker

Meanwhile, "Rescue Dawn" remained in a precarious state.

The New Yorker

It's a precarious state of affairs, and by definition temporary.

The New York Times - Arts

This is an important topic, given the current precarious state of much of it.

The Economist

WWI left Graves in a precarious state, shell-shocked and suffering from severe war neurosis.

The New Yorker

But he clearly failed to avert G.E.'s fall into a precarious state to begin with.

The New York Times

But negotiations dragged on, leaving Saab in an increasingly precarious state.

The New York Times

The most pressing concern for the "grand coalition" was the precarious state of the European economy.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "precarious state", ensure the context clearly indicates what is at risk. Providing specific details enhances the impact and clarity of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "precarious state" to exaggerate minor inconveniences. Reserve it for situations genuinely threatened with instability or significant negative consequences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "precarious state" functions as a noun phrase, where "precarious" modifies "state". It describes a condition characterized by instability, uncertainty, or danger. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is valid and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

20%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "precarious state" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to describe situations marked by instability or risk. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability. Predominantly found in News & Media and academic contexts, the phrase serves to highlight vulnerabilities across various domains. When employing "precarious state", ensure the context clearly defines the element at risk to enhance clarity and impact. While common and appropriate for formal writing, avoid overuse in trivial contexts to maintain its descriptive power.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

risky situation

Emphasizes the presence of potential danger or negative outcomes.

unstable condition

Focuses on the lack of stability and potential for sudden change.

fragile situation

Highlights the delicacy and vulnerability of the circumstances.

tenuous position

Suggests a weak or uncertain hold, likely to be lost.

perilous circumstances

Underscores the high level of risk and potential harm involved.

hazardous situation

Implies immediate danger and potential for severe consequences.

delicate balance

Highlights the fine line between stability and collapse.

vulnerable state

Focuses on the susceptibility to harm or negative influence.

sensitive situation

Emphasizes the need for careful handling to avoid negative outcomes.

uncertain situation

Highlights the lack of predictability and potential for unexpected changes.

FAQs

How can I use "precarious state" in a sentence?

You can use "precarious state" to describe situations facing instability. For example, "The economy is in a "precarious state" due to rising inflation."

What are some alternatives to "precarious state"?

Alternatives include "risky situation", "unstable condition", or "fragile situation", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "precarious state" in formal writing?

Yes, "precarious state" is suitable for formal writing. It is commonly found in news articles, academic papers, and business reports.

What is the difference between "precarious state" and "crisis"?

"Precarious state" implies a situation of instability and potential danger, while "crisis" suggests an immediate and severe problem. A "precarious state" can lead to a crisis if not addressed.