a grave potential

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a grave potential" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a serious or significant possibility or risk associated with a situation or action. Example: "The project carries a grave potential for environmental damage if not managed properly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The surprise in this 5-to-4 decision was less the outcome than the lineup, with Justice David H. Souter deserting his usual allies to write the majority opinion and Justice Sandra Day O'Connor warning in dissent that the decision carried "a grave potential for abuse".

The New York Times

North Korea, meanwhile, although on extraordinarily good behavior for nearly two years now, remains with its missiles and programs to develop weapons of mass destruction -- not to mention its lack of democracy and a woeful human rights record -- a grave potential threat to international peace.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Then again, the habitually urbane Ken Clarke is just one of the senior politicians recognising a "grave, grave potential crisis".

The Guardian - Opinion

The trick was to find a malady with such grave potential that even changing into Dunlop green flash plimsolls might exacerbate it.

Independent

The flood of refugees from Syria, and the ISIS attacks in Paris and threats elsewhere, have grave potential to create a new wave of hard-right governments -- not just within the borders of the European Union, as well as the U.S.

Huffington Post

Jerry Hauer, who was Giuliani's top adviser for emergency preparedness and later had a nasty falling out with the mayor, now refers to his old boss as a "9/12 expert" — that is, one who saw the grave potential of Islamic terror only after it had been realized.

The New York Times - Magazine

The British-American plan to lift economic sanctions on Iraq in exchange for a strict arms embargo and resumption of international inspections must anticipate two grave potential problems.

The New York Times

This has grave potential consequences for the stability of the Middle East.

The New York Times

The risk of improbable, uncertain, but grave potential dangers poses unique adaptive challenges.

Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews

Muhammad became anxious about their conduct, and realized the grave potential danger the Qurayza posed.

Wikipedia

As early as the 1995 Blount v. SEC decision and more recently in the 2010 Green Party of Connecticut v. Garfield decision, the courts have recognized the grave potential for corruption in government contracting and have upheld pay-to-play laws and rules as narrowly tailored remedies to a very real and specific problem.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a grave potential", ensure the context clearly establishes the specific negative outcome being risked. Provide concrete details to support the assertion of potential severity.

Common error

Avoid using "a grave potential" in situations where the potential negative outcome is minor or easily mitigated. Overusing strong language can diminish its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a grave potential" functions as a noun phrase that describes the possibility of a serious or significant negative outcome. Ludwig AI examples show it qualifying threats, crises and abuses.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a grave potential" is a phrase used to highlight the possibility of serious negative consequences. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability, noting its application in describing significant risks. While not overly common, it's appropriate for formal contexts such as news and scientific writing. When employing this phrase, clarity and specificity are essential to effectively communicate the potential severity of the situation. Consider alternatives like "a serious risk" or "a significant threat", as needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a serious possibility

This alternative replaces "grave potential" with a more straightforward expression of possibility.

a significant risk

This alternative shifts the focus slightly to emphasize the element of risk involved.

a considerable threat

This alternative uses "threat" to highlight the potential for harm or danger.

a worrisome prospect

This alternative introduces a sense of anxiety or concern about the future.

a troubling development

This suggests an issue that's unfolding with concerning implications.

a grim outlook

This alternative emphasizes a pessimistic or negative future scenario.

a dire prognosis

This alternative, often used in medical contexts, suggests a very unfavorable outcome.

a looming crisis

This alternative emphasizes the impending nature and severity of a potential problem.

a substantial likelihood

This shifts the focus to the probability of something happening, maintaining a formal tone.

a major cause for concern

This alternative expresses worry regarding a situation and can be used in formal register.

FAQs

How can I use "a grave potential" in a sentence?

You can use "a grave potential" to highlight the possibility of significant negative consequences. For example, "The proposed policy carries "a grave potential" for economic instability".

What are some alternatives to "a grave potential"?

Alternatives include "a serious risk", "a significant threat", or "a considerable threat", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a grave potential" in formal writing?

Yes, "a grave potential" is appropriate for formal writing when discussing serious risks or consequences. However, ensure the tone aligns with the overall formality of the document.

How does "a grave potential" differ from "a slight potential"?

"A grave potential" indicates a serious and significant risk, whereas "a slight potential" suggests a minor or less concerning possibility. The choice depends on the magnitude of the perceived risk.