a domino effect

USAGE SUMMARY

"a domino effect" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written and spoken English.
It refers to a chain reaction or series of events where one event causes a series of similar events to occur. Example: The increase in gas prices had a domino effect on the economy, causing food and transportation prices to also rise.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

There's a domino effect.

The New York Times - Sports

A domino effect ensues.

The New York Times

It's a domino effect.

The New Yorker

This triggers a domino effect.

The Guardian

It was a domino effect.

The New York Times

Now let's see a domino effect.

The New York Times

Everything had a domino effect.

The Guardian - Arts

That created a domino effect among quarterbacks.

The New York Times - Sports

"It's in essence a domino effect".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Another hypothesis posits a "domino-effect" of initial pseudogenisation triggering subsequent large-scale gene loss [ 28].

BMC Evolutionary Biology

"There will be a domino effect across Europe.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a domino effect" when you want to emphasize that one action sets off a predictable chain of related events. It's particularly effective when describing consequences that unfold sequentially.

Common error

Avoid using "a domino effect" to describe isolated incidents with no clear connection. The phrase implies a linked sequence, so ensure the events are causally related before using it.

How to use

Learn how to use "a domino effect" with practical examples and tips.

How to use

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a domino effect" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a process where one event triggers a series of subsequent events. Ludwig provides numerous examples illustrating its use in describing sequential consequences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a domino effect" is a very common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe a chain reaction where one event triggers a series of subsequent events. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, business, and science, due to its neutral register. When using this phrase, ensure a clear causal relationship between the initial action and the resulting sequence. Alternatives such as "chain reaction" or "ripple effect" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

chain reaction

Focuses on the sequential nature of the events, similar to a chemical reaction.

ripple effect

Emphasizes the spreading consequences emanating from a central event.

cascade effect

Highlights the escalating impact as the sequence progresses.

snowball effect

Illustrates how an initial event grows in significance as it continues.

knock-on effect

Stresses the indirect consequences resulting from an action.

chain of events

A more literal description of a sequence where each event leads to the next.

series of consequences

Highlights the successive results stemming from an initial cause.

successive repercussions

A more formal way to describe follow-on effects.

unintended consequences

Focuses on the unexpected and often negative outcomes.

systemic impact

Describes the widespread influence on an entire system.

FAQs

How can I use "a domino effect" in a sentence?

Use "a domino effect" to describe a series of events where one triggers the next. For example, "The company's bankruptcy had "a domino effect" on its suppliers".

What's a good alternative to "a domino effect"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "chain reaction", "ripple effect", or "cascade effect".

Is "domino effect" always negative?

While often used to describe negative sequences, "a domino effect" can also apply to positive outcomes. It simply indicates a chain reaction, regardless of the nature of the consequences.

What is the difference between "a domino effect" and "unintended consequences"?

"A domino effect" describes a predictable sequence of events, while "unintended consequences" refers to unexpected results, which may or may not be part of a chain reaction.