a major liability

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a major liability" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that poses a significant risk or disadvantage in a particular context, such as business, legal matters, or personal situations. Example: "Failing to comply with safety regulations can be a major liability for any company."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

Who knew that they were also a major liability?

The New York Times

But George is fast becoming a major liability".

The Guardian

Yet what began as a way to hedge against risk has turned into a major liability.

The New York Times

There's just one problem: Lewis's declining athleticism has made him a major liability in coverage.

The New York Times

"This will be a major liability that Mitt Romney brings into the race," he said.

The New York Times

For one, pension increases, a major liability for the Big Three, have been scaled back.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

Ms. Domínguez knows all too well that a skeptical husband can be a major political liability.

The New York Times

He added of companies that monitor athletes' online activities: "These companies are selling snake oil that contains a major legal liability time bomb.

The New York Times - Sports

This comes despite an exclusive poll in today's Observer which shows increasing discontent with Blair, suggesting that he may be a major election liability rather than asset.

The Guardian

That reputation, deserved or not, could become a major political liability for Booker, particularly at a time of concern over drug prices.

The Washington Post

You might think that Libya would have been considered a political success for the Obama administration, but it became a major political liability.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a major liability", ensure the context clearly defines who or what bears the liability and what potential negative consequences may arise.

Common error

Avoid using "a major liability" in situations where the risk or drawback is minor or easily mitigated; use more nuanced language to reflect the actual degree of concern.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a major liability" functions as a noun phrase that identifies something posing a significant risk or disadvantage. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its correct usage across a range of contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a major liability" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe something that presents a significant risk or disadvantage. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage spans various contexts, but is most prevalent in news and media. When writing, it's important to ensure the context clearly defines the bearer of the liability and the potential negative consequences. While suitable for both formal and informal use, writers should be mindful of the severity implied and avoid overstating the risk in less critical situations. Semantically related alternatives include "a significant disadvantage" or "a serious drawback".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant disadvantage

Focuses on the hindering aspect rather than the responsibility.

a considerable burden

Highlights the weight or difficulty imposed.

a serious drawback

Emphasizes the negative consequences or limitations.

a substantial encumbrance

Suggests something heavy and restrictive.

a grave impediment

Indicates a significant obstacle or obstruction.

a heavy millstone

Emphasizes the feeling of being weighed down by something.

an onerous obligation

Highlights the burdensome and demanding nature of the duty.

a crippling weakness

Focuses on the disabling effect or vulnerability.

a damaging exposure

Suggests vulnerability to harm or criticism.

a problematic aspect

Highlights a concerning element or feature.

FAQs

How can "a major liability" be used in a sentence?

You can use "a major liability" to describe something that poses a significant risk or disadvantage. For example, "The company's outdated technology is "a major liability" in today's competitive market."

What's a good alternative to "a major liability"?

Alternatives include "a significant drawback", "a considerable burden", or "a serious weakness" depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "a major liability"?

It's appropriate when describing something that presents a substantial risk, disadvantage, or problem that could have significant negative consequences.

Is "a major liability" formal or informal?

The phrase is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although it is commonly found in news and business settings. The tone is generally neutral.