a major incident

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a major incident" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a significant event or occurrence that has serious implications or consequences, often in contexts such as emergency services, news reporting, or organizational management. Example: "The fire department responded quickly to a major incident at the chemical plant, ensuring the safety of nearby residents."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Clearer systems for declaring a major incident.

The Guardian

Police declared a major incident.

The Guardian

We declared it a major incident very quickly".

Independent

Police Scotland declared the flooding a major incident.

The Guardian

He said that despite the use of a major incident tent, a major incident was not declared.

The Guardian

Emergency services have declared a "major incident" as they battle swelling riverbanks.

Independent

This is due to a police investigation into a major incident in the vicinity.

The Guardian

The police and fire service were called and a major incident was declared.

Independent

The Save the Children worker reported it as a "major" incident.

The Guardian

Emergency services were soon on the scene and declared a major incident.

The Guardian

The game finishes 3-0 to ACU, without a major incident.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In formal settings, clearly define what constitutes "a major incident" within your organization to ensure consistent responses.

Common error

Avoid using "a major incident" to describe minor inconveniences; reserve it for genuinely serious situations to maintain its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a major incident" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a specific type of event characterized by its severity and potential impact. Ludwig provides numerous examples of its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a major incident" is a noun phrase denoting a serious event demanding significant resources and attention. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various domains, particularly in news, science, and formal communications. While versatile, it's best reserved for situations of genuine significance to avoid diluting its impact. When a synonym is needed, consider alternatives like "a critical situation" or "a significant event", adjusting based on context. The frequency is very common and it's important to reserve it only for relevant situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a critical situation

This alternative emphasizes the urgency and potential danger of the event.

a critical event

This alternative focuses on the event's importance in a specific context, potentially leading to significant consequences.

an emergency situation

This alternative indicates a situation that requires immediate attention and action.

a significant event

This alternative is a broader term that may not necessarily imply negative consequences or disruption.

a disastrous situation

This alternative underscores the harmful and damaging effects of the event.

a serious occurrence

This alternative highlights the gravity and importance of the event.

a substantial event

This alternative suggests the event is large in scale or impact.

a calamitous event

This alternative stresses the disastrous or tragic nature of the incident.

an extraordinary event

This alternative suggests the incident is atypical and remarkable.

a grave matter

This alternative focuses on the seriousness and concern associated with the event.

FAQs

How is "a major incident" typically defined?

Generally, "a major incident" refers to an event with serious consequences that requires special arrangements and the mobilization of significant resources. Definitions can vary depending on the context and organization.

When is it appropriate to declare "a major incident"?

Declaring "a major incident" is appropriate when an event overwhelms existing resources and requires a coordinated response from multiple agencies or departments.

What can I say instead of "a major incident"?

You can use alternatives like "a critical situation", "a significant event", or "a serious occurrence" depending on the context.

What is the difference between "a major incident" and "a minor incident"?

"A major incident" involves serious consequences and requires significant resources, whereas "a minor incident" has limited impact and can be managed with routine procedures.