a collapse that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a collapse that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a specific type of collapse or to describe the nature of a collapse in a sentence. Example: "The report detailed a collapse that occurred due to structural failures in the building."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But their quick dismissal instigated a collapse that resulted in England losing 6 for 22.

Independent

Opposition leaders in the new government said they feared a collapse that could invite a military takeover.

The New York Times

When Kim Il-sung died suddenly in 1994, outside analysts widely predicted a collapse that never arrived.

The New Yorker

It's a collapse that is speeding up fast because of what is happening in schools and universities.

The Guardian

But without serious collective action, we are heading towards a collapse that should worry all sectors of society.

The Guardian

Peter Schiff thinks the economy is heading for a collapse that will "make 2008 look like a walk in the park".

The New York Times

But like Mr Putin, he wants to avoid a revolution and a collapse that would jeopardise his wealth.In this section What have we become?

The Economist

Beijing's biggest fear has always been destabilizing North Korea, and setting off a collapse that could put South Korean forces, and perhaps their American allies, on China's border.

The New York Times

Some signs suggest that the ice sheet is in the early stages of a collapse that could eventually have a profound effect on sea level.

The New York Times

The aim was to shore up the financial system and avert a collapse that might starve the whole economy of credit.

The Economist

The game will decide whether the Jets go to the playoffs or complete a collapse that will send them home for the holidays.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a collapse that", ensure the clause that follows clearly specifies the consequences or nature of the collapse. This enhances clarity and provides context for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "a collapse that" without clearly defining what kind of collapse you are referring to. Be specific about the system, structure, or entity undergoing the collapse to prevent ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a collapse that" functions as a relative clause introducer. It connects a noun phrase ("a collapse") to a subordinate clause that provides further description or information about the nature or consequences of the collapse. Ludwig shows this usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a collapse that" is a versatile phrase used to introduce descriptive clauses about various types of collapses. Ludwig's analysis indicates its grammatical correctness and common usage across diverse contexts, particularly in news, science, and formal writing. While generally neutral in tone, ensuring the subsequent clause is specific and provides context is crucial for clarity. Common errors involve vague references; therefore, detailing the nature and consequences of the "collapse that" is recommended.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a breakdown that

Replaces "collapse" with "breakdown", implying a more gradual or less sudden failure.

a failure that

Substitutes "collapse" with "failure", indicating a lack of success or expected outcome.

a downfall that

Uses "downfall" instead of "collapse", suggesting a loss of power, status, or fortune.

a disintegration that

Employs "disintegration" in place of "collapse", highlighting a process of falling apart or losing cohesion.

a disintegration which

Uses "disintegration which" instead of "a collapse that", with minor impact in meaning

a meltdown that

Replaces "collapse" with "meltdown", emphasizing a catastrophic failure, often in financial or emotional contexts.

a debacle that

Substitutes "collapse" with "debacle", indicating a sudden and ignominious failure.

a crisis that

Employs "crisis" instead of "collapse", focusing on a critical turning point or unstable situation.

an implosion that

Replaces "collapse" with "implosion", suggesting a sudden and inward collapse.

a setback that

Substitutes "collapse" with "setback", indicating a temporary impediment to progress.

FAQs

How can I use "a collapse that" in a sentence?

Use "a collapse that" to introduce a clause that describes or explains a specific kind of failure. For example, "The economic crisis triggered "a collapse that" affected small businesses nationwide".

What phrases are similar to "a collapse that"?

Similar phrases include "a failure that", "a breakdown that", or "a downfall that". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "the collapse that" instead of "a collapse that"?

Both are grammatically correct, but "a collapse that" is used when referring to a general or non-specific collapse. "The collapse that" is used when referring to a specific, previously mentioned, or uniquely identifiable collapse.

What's the difference between "a collapse that" and "a crisis that"?

"A collapse that" usually refers to a sudden failure or breakdown, while "a crisis that" refers to a critical situation or turning point that may or may not involve a complete failure. A crisis can lead to "a collapse that", but not always.