a gathering storm

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a gathering storm" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used metaphorically to describe an impending crisis or trouble that is developing. Example: "The political climate is tense, and many believe we are facing a gathering storm that could lead to significant unrest."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Central Asia : a gathering storm?

Yale University

Many Republicans strongly opposed the idea of diverting funds to carmakers.In this section A gathering storm?

The Economist

But deeper trends in this country and abroad are signs of a gathering storm.

The Washington Post

The performers' intensity made every step seem a portent of a gathering storm.

The New York Times - Arts

He braces for a gathering storm of conflict between individual desire and cultural tradition.

The New York Times

To paraphrase Robert Burns, his is a world of gathering brows and a gathering storm.

The Guardian - Film

The commentary itself then creates another news story, a gathering storm, and the rain comes down again.

The New Yorker

William Bratton, the police chief of Los Angeles (and formerly of New York), speaks of a "gathering storm of crime".

The Economist

The violence and disclosure are less affecting than the sense of a gathering storm that precedes them.

The New York Times - Books

BIS chief Claudio Borio said the "uneasy calm" of previous months had given way to turbulence and a "gathering storm".

The Guardian - Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Maybe that's why one highlight of this album is the closing track, "Lullaby," which hinges on a single, charged suggestion — "Let me rock you to sleep, pretty baby" — and a gathering-storm crescendo by the band.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a gathering storm", ensure the context provides specific details about the potential negative consequences to enhance the impact and clarity of your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "a gathering storm" too frequently in your writing. Overuse can diminish its impact and make your writing sound predictable. Instead, consider using it sparingly for maximum effect.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a gathering storm" functions as a noun phrase, often used metaphorically to describe an impending crisis or a situation where negative forces are accumulating. Ludwig indicates this is a correct and usable expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a gathering storm" is a commonly used and grammatically correct expression that serves to metaphorically describe an impending crisis or the buildup of negative circumstances. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread use across various contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, it effectively conveys a sense of foreboding, prompting readers to anticipate potential challenges. While its usage is versatile, it's important to avoid overuse to maintain its impact. Related phrases like "an approaching crisis" or "a brewing conflict" can serve as alternatives to prevent redundancy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an approaching crisis

Emphasizes the imminence of a difficult situation.

a brewing conflict

Highlights the development of a dispute or struggle.

an impending disaster

Focuses on the potential for a calamitous event.

a looming threat

Stresses the menacing nature of a future danger.

a rising tide of

Suggests a growing and overwhelming negative force.

storm clouds on the horizon

Uses a more visual and metaphorical description of approaching problems.

signs of trouble

A more general phrase indicating upcoming difficulties.

a cloud of uncertainty

Highlights the lack of clarity and potential for negative outcomes.

an escalating situation

Focuses on the increasing severity or intensity of a problem.

a difficult period ahead

A more understated way to describe an upcoming challenging time.

FAQs

How can I use "a gathering storm" in a sentence?

You can use "a gathering storm" to describe an impending crisis or troubling situation. For example, "The economic indicators suggest "a gathering storm" is brewing in the financial markets."

What is a good alternative to "a gathering storm"?

Alternatives include "an approaching crisis", "a brewing conflict", or "an impending disaster", depending on the specific context.

What does it mean when someone says "a gathering storm"?

It means that there are signs of trouble ahead, indicating a potential crisis or difficult situation that is likely to develop.

Is it appropriate to use "a gathering storm" in formal writing?

Yes, "a gathering storm" is appropriate in formal writing, particularly in news articles, academic papers, and business reports, to describe serious or significant upcoming problems.