Precarious timing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Precarious timing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where the timing of an event or action is uncertain or risky, potentially leading to negative consequences. Example: "The project's success depended on precarious timing, as any delay could jeopardize the entire initiative."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

But, given the industry's slump, the timing is precarious.

The New York Times

But does the introduction of another language into his act not interfere with the precarious alignment of rhythm, timing, and cultural references?

The Guardian

The timing is precarious.

BBC

Precarious jobs are unsatisfactory ones.

The Washington Post

He's a skilled acrobat, holding precarious balances and falling with split-second timing, but he telegraphs his effects.

Independent

That's what for some Russians makes the timing of Powell's revelation so precarious.

The Guardian

The timing of this fiscal stimulus is precarious as the U.S. labor market was essentially already running at full employment.

Forbes

Still, the timing of adoption and the always-precarious supply and demand situation have in the past derailed the best-laid plans in the memory segment.

Forbes

Massive, precarious.

Independent

Talk about precarious.

The New York Times

Conversation is precarious.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "precarious timing", ensure the context clearly indicates what makes the timing risky or uncertain. Provide specific details about potential negative consequences to enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "precarious timing" when the situation simply requires good timing, rather than describing a situation where timing is both crucial and potentially dangerous or unstable. For situations requiring just good timing without risks, prefer using "good timing" or "opportune moment".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "precarious timing" functions as an adjective-noun combination, where "precarious" modifies "timing". This construction highlights the risky or unstable nature of a particular moment or period. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "precarious timing" is a phrase used to describe a situation where the timing of an event is risky or uncertain, often implying potential negative consequences. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is correct and usable in English. It's most frequently found in news and media contexts, highlighting critical or unstable moments. Alternatives include "risky timing" and "uncertain timing". When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly indicates what makes the timing risky and be mindful of the potential nuance confusion with situations that simply require good timing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

risky timing

Replaces "precarious" with "risky", emphasizing the potential for negative outcomes due to the timing.

uncertain timing

Focuses on the unpredictability of the timing, rather than the inherent danger.

sensitive timing

Highlights the delicacy and need for careful consideration regarding the timing.

critical timing

Emphasizes the importance of the timing to the success or failure of an event.

unstable timing

Suggests that the timing is subject to change or disruption.

delicate timing

Similar to "sensitive timing", indicating a situation where careful handling is necessary.

volatile timing

Implies that the timing is prone to sudden and significant changes.

chancy timing

More informal, suggesting that the timing involves a significant element of chance.

untimely moment

Focuses on the inauspicious nature of the specific point in time.

inopportune moment

Similar to "untimely moment", highlighting the unsuitability of the timing.

FAQs

What does "precarious timing" mean?

"Precarious timing" describes a situation where the timing of an event or action is risky, uncertain, or unstable, potentially leading to negative consequences. It indicates that the situation requires careful handling because the outcome is sensitive to when things happen.

When should I use "precarious timing"?

Use "precarious timing" when you want to emphasize that the success of something depends on a specific moment, and any deviation from that moment could lead to problems. Consider using alternatives like "risky timing" or "uncertain timing" if the nuance fits better.

What are some alternatives to "precarious timing"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "precarious timing" include "sensitive timing", "critical timing", or "delicate timing". These phrases highlight different aspects of the timing, such as the need for careful consideration or the high stakes involved.

Is "precarious timing" always negative?

While "precarious timing" often implies potential negative outcomes, it isn't inherently negative. It simply highlights that the timing is critical and any misstep could have significant repercussions. The specific implications depend on the context.