a deadly combination

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a deadly combination" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
It can be used to describe a mixture of things that have a harmful or dangerous effect when put together. Example: "The hot weather and lack of water in the desert were a deadly combination for the hikers, causing several cases of heat exhaustion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Guatemala has some of the highest rates of anemia in the world, and combined with traditional malnutrition, it's a deadly combination for the population.

Huffington Post

It was a deadly combination.

The New York Times

"That's a deadly combination.

The New York Times

Fear and ignorance are a deadly combination".

The New York Times

Late and inadequate: for Nokia, it was a deadly combination.

The New Yorker

Concentration and vertical integration are a deadly combination.

The New York Times

It also seemed predictable and too comfortable, a deadly combination.

The New York Times

With almost zero back lift, it's a deadly combination.

Independent

That star persona and hackneyed material, heavy on baking jokes, are a deadly combination.

The New York Times - Arts

Humans and hunting dogs were, and still are, a deadly combination, says Shipman.

The Guardian

High quality, low price: for the repairman, it's a deadly combination.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a deadly combination", ensure that each element you are combining contributes significantly to the negative outcome. Be specific about how these elements interact to create a greater risk.

Common error

Avoid using "a deadly combination" to describe mildly negative situations. This phrase implies a serious and potentially catastrophic outcome, so reserve it for scenarios with significant consequences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a deadly combination" serves as a noun phrase, functioning to identify a specific confluence of factors that, when combined, produce a significantly negative or harmful result. Ludwig's examples showcase its usage in various contexts, reinforcing its role as a descriptive element within a sentence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Formal & Business

13%

Science

13%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a deadly combination" is a noun phrase used to describe a set of circumstances where multiple factors interact to produce a severe, often catastrophic, outcome. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and very commonly used. Predominantly found in news and media, but also present in formal business and scientific contexts, it maintains a neutral register. Remember to reserve it for truly serious situations and to clearly articulate how the combined elements contribute to the negative result. Alternatives such as "a lethal mix" or "a fatal cocktail" can offer nuanced variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a lethal mix

Emphasizes the fatal potential of the combined elements.

a fatal cocktail

Uses a metaphor to describe a dangerous mixture of elements.

a dangerous synergy

Focuses on the amplified risk due to the interaction of components.

a perilous blend

Highlights the hazardous nature of the mixed elements.

a hazardous confluence

Describes the dangerous convergence of different factors.

a toxic pairing

Implies that the elements involved are harmful when combined.

a devastating synergy

Focuses on a destructive outcome of combined elements.

a recipe for disaster

Suggests a likely negative outcome from a specific set of circumstances.

a troubling convergence

Highlights an ominous and disturbing mix of elements.

a recipe for trouble

Suggests the circumstances will likely lead to difficulties.

FAQs

How can I use "a deadly combination" in a sentence?

Use "a deadly combination" to describe situations where multiple factors interact to produce a severe or fatal outcome. For example, "Poverty and lack of education can be "a deadly combination" for young people".

What phrases are similar to "a deadly combination"?

Alternatives include "a lethal mix", "a fatal cocktail", or "a dangerous synergy", each emphasizing different aspects of the dangerous mix.

Is it appropriate to use "a deadly combination" in formal writing?

Yes, "a deadly combination" can be used in formal writing, particularly when discussing serious topics such as public health, economics, or environmental issues. The tone should match the gravity of the subject.

What is the difference between "a deadly combination" and "a dangerous situation"?

"A dangerous situation" describes a single, immediate threat, whereas ""a deadly combination"" refers to multiple factors compounding each other to create a severe or potentially fatal outcome. The latter suggests a more complex and insidious threat.