a possible danger

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a possible danger" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing potential risks or threats in various contexts, such as safety, health, or security. Example: "The storm poses a possible danger to the coastal communities, and residents are advised to take precautions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

For example, in an area where dengue fever is endemic there's a possible danger to the public".

The Guardian

"The security forces and the intelligence bodies are obligated to safeguard their well-being in case of a possible danger".

The New York Times

One experiment used electrodes to measure the startle blink reflex, the way we flinch and blink when startled by a possible danger.

The New York Times

Re "For Botox User, a Few Words of Caution: (Personal Health, July 1): Jane Brody stressed a possible danger of Botox use: "droopy eyelids, difficulty swallowing or talking, trouble breathing or muscle weakness".

The New York Times

Its value is that it is part of the process of waking up the world to a possible danger.

Forbes

However, the evidence is still far from proving whether the long-term consumption of GM foods posses a possible danger for human or animal health.

Food and Chemical Toxicology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

However, both the governments were vigilant to prevent any possible danger to the barrage.

Bandung: Journal of the Global South

The Met Office warned: "widespread flooding will lead to high levels of disruption to travel, deep, fast-flowing watercourses and an associated possible danger to life".

Independent

But the department still grapples with the reality that at least half of seriously mentally ill people receive no treatment at all, a situation of possible danger to the entire community and, far more often, to themselves.

Huffington Post

After all, a house should be a home, not a fortress from every possible danger the world has to offer.

Huffington Post

Being an Emergency Room Nurse can give you a heightened awareness of every possible danger that a child could suffer.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a possible danger" to introduce a potential risk that requires attention or mitigation. It signals a need for vigilance or action without exaggerating the threat.

Common error

Avoid using "a possible danger" when the threat is already confirmed or imminent. Instead, use phrases like "the imminent danger" or "the present threat" to reflect the severity of the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a possible danger" functions as a noun phrase, where "possible" modifies the noun "danger". It is typically used to identify a potential risk or hazard, as confirmed by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

29%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a possible danger" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to denote a potential risk or hazard. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears most commonly in news and scientific contexts. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the nature of the danger and its potential impact. While versatile, avoid overstating the threat by using more definitive language when the danger is confirmed or imminent. Consider semantically related phrases like "a potential hazard" or "a potential risk" for nuanced variations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a potential hazard

Emphasizes the inherent risk or peril, using a slightly more formal term.

a potential threat

Focuses on the intention or capability to cause harm, highlighting a sense of impending harm.

a potential risk

Highlights the probability of something negative occurring, focusing on the likelihood of loss or harm.

a likely danger

Indicates a higher probability of the danger materializing, suggesting it's more than just a possibility.

a foreseeable hazard

Emphasizes that the danger can be anticipated or predicted, often used in legal or safety contexts.

a conceivable risk

Suggests that the risk is within the realm of possibility or imagination, even if it's not highly probable.

a looming threat

Conveys a sense of an approaching or impending danger, often creating a feeling of unease.

a perceived danger

Highlights that the danger is based on subjective evaluation, whether it is true or not.

a hypothetical danger

Indicates that the danger is theoretical or speculative, rather than based on concrete evidence.

a looming risk

Emphasizes the threatening aspect of danger. Highlights a more negative and concerning view.

FAQs

How can I use "a possible danger" in a sentence?

You can use "a possible danger" to introduce a situation where there is a chance of harm or risk, such as, "The broken fence represents "a possible danger" to children playing nearby."

What are some alternatives to using "a possible danger"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a potential threat", "a potential risk", or "a likely danger", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "a possible danger" or "a potential danger"?

Both "a possible danger" and "a potential danger" are correct. "Possible" suggests something that could happen, while "potential" implies an inherent capability to cause harm. The choice depends on the specific context.

What is the difference between "a possible danger" and "a real danger"?

"A possible danger" indicates a risk that may or may not materialize, while "a real danger" implies an existing and immediate threat. The former requires monitoring, while the latter demands immediate action.