a grave reality

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a grave reality" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a serious or significant situation that is difficult to accept or confront. Example: "The rising levels of pollution in our oceans present a grave reality that we can no longer ignore."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Fatalities from illegal immigration from Africa to Europe are a grave reality.

IZA Journal of Migration

Skollie's painted papayas and bananas also serve as symbols of exploitation and colonization, a grave reality for South African descendants of the Khoisan tribe, like Skollie herself.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Such an occurrence should be a reminder to appreciate your loved ones and a time to offer condolences to those who experienced the grave reality of how sudden a freak catastrophe can drastically alter one's life.

Huffington Post

The neighbouring Arab gulf states would find themselves with a grave security reality, which could lead to a dangerous future.

The Guardian - Opinion

Hopeless or grave reality situations, lack of talent or ability (usually regarded as 'inhibition'), lack of an adequate philosophy of life, and almost any chronic physical illness may be brought to psychoanalysis for cure".

The New Yorker

"The benefits of breastfeeding have been widely publicised yet … it's clear that efforts are still falling far too short and the grave reality is that this is costing children's lives," said Professor Russell Viner of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health.

The Guardian

The photos reveal the grave reality many young women in India live with: that simply existing in public yields uneasiness, scorn and sometimes abuse. .

Huffington Post

The film returns repeatedly to the financial stresses of élite training — but shies away from any real numbers, any sense of the grave realities.

The New Yorker

Epstein fails to account for any of these grave realities on the ground.

Huffington Post

But if there is one modern usage I would wipe from existence, it is the word "monster" as a description of something big, like the monster truck rally I went to (which should feature monster-shaped trucks, rather than monster-sized ones. The reality was a grave disappointment and my "Go Godzilla" banner remains folded up in a dark cupboard).

The Guardian - Opinion

It also provides an image of a corporation completely disconnected from reality, does a grave disservice to our political process and jeopardizes our democracy.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a grave reality" when you want to emphasize the serious and undeniable nature of a situation, particularly one that is difficult or unpleasant to confront.

Common error

Avoid using "a grave reality" in contexts where the situation, although perhaps undesirable, is not genuinely serious or life-threatening. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a grave reality" functions as a noun phrase that describes a particular state of affairs. It typically acts as a subject complement or an object in a sentence, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation. This aligns with Ludwig AI's assessment of its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a grave reality" is a phrase used to describe a serious and undeniable situation, often one that is difficult or unpleasant. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English. It is most commonly found in news and media, as well as scientific contexts, and carries a neutral to formal tone. When using this phrase, it is important to ensure that the situation truly warrants such a strong characterization to avoid diminishing its impact. Alternatives such as "a harsh truth" or "a serious situation" may be more appropriate depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A harsh truth

Focuses on the unpleasant nature of the reality.

A serious situation

Emphasizes the gravity of the circumstances.

A grim reality

Highlights the bleak and depressing aspect of the reality.

An undeniable truth

Stresses the irrefutable nature of the statement.

A sober reality

Indicates a serious and thoughtful consideration of the facts.

A worrying situation

Highlights the cause for concern presented by the reality.

A stark reality

Emphasizes the blunt and often unwelcome clarity of the reality.

A pressing issue

Draws attention to the urgency and importance of the matter.

A critical juncture

Indicates a decisive point with potentially severe consequences.

A difficult truth

Focuses on the challenging nature of accepting the reality.

FAQs

What does "a grave reality" mean?

The phrase "a grave reality" refers to a situation or truth that is serious, significant, and often unpleasant or difficult to accept. It highlights the weighty consequences and the need for careful consideration.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a grave reality"?

It's appropriate to use "a grave reality" when describing situations that have significant implications, such as social issues, environmental concerns, or personal crises. It emphasizes the seriousness of the matter.

What are some alternatives to "a grave reality"?

Alternatives include "a harsh truth", "a serious situation", or "a grim reality", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a grave reality" formal or informal?

"A grave reality" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although it tends to be more common in news reporting and serious discussions. Its appropriateness depends on the overall tone and audience.