a potential danger

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a potential danger" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing risks or threats that may arise in a particular situation. Example: "The storm poses a potential danger to the coastal communities, prompting officials to issue evacuation orders."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He added, "It's a potential danger".

The New York Times

He says this poses a potential danger.

The Guardian

That is both an asset and a potential danger.

The New York Times

The E.P.A. has acknowledged a potential danger in the groundwater.

The New York Times

Happy coincidences are a potential danger in systems biology as well.

Stanford University

But New York's mayor, Michael Bloomberg, rejected the trial as a potential danger.

The Guardian

And then these people would just be floating around, a potential danger.

The Guardian

An automated system will also pose a potential danger to people with disabilities.

The New York Times

Distraction is always a potential danger, and not just because of personal computers and other gadgets.

The New York Times

It looked awful and was a potential danger to children playing nearby.

The Guardian

And although Republicans are feeling confident about the results, there is a potential danger for them.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a potential danger", clearly specify what constitutes the danger and who or what is at risk. This enhances clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the potential danger. Use precise language to accurately reflect the level of risk, preventing unwarranted alarm.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a potential danger" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject complement or object of a sentence. As confirmed by Ludwig, it identifies something that poses a possible threat or risk.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

36%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a potential danger" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase. As Ludwig AI confirms, it serves to highlight possible risks or threats across diverse contexts, from news and media to scientific and academic domains. When employing this phrase, it's crucial to specify the nature of the danger and the parties at risk. While interchangeable alternatives like "a possible threat" or "a likely risk" exist, the choice depends on the specific nuance you aim to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a possible threat

Emphasizes the possibility of harm, focusing on the likelihood of the danger materializing.

a likely risk

Highlights the probability of a negative outcome, suggesting a more calculated assessment of the danger.

a looming threat

Implies that the danger is approaching or becoming more imminent.

an emerging hazard

Suggests that the danger is new or recently identified.

a hidden peril

Focuses on the fact that the danger is not easily seen or recognized.

a brewing storm

Metaphorically suggests a danger that is gathering momentum and intensity.

a ticking time bomb

Implies that the danger will inevitably explode or cause harm at some point in the future.

a present risk

Indicates that the danger is immediate and already in effect.

a credible threat

Emphasizes the believability and authenticity of the danger.

a safety concern

Focuses on the aspect of safety that could be potentially compromised.

FAQs

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

You can use "a potential danger" to describe a risk or threat that could possibly occur. For example, "The abandoned building is "a potential danger" to children playing nearby."

What are some alternatives to "a potential danger"?

Some alternatives include "a possible threat", "a likely risk", or "an emerging hazard", depending on the specific context.

Is it more appropriate to use "a potential risk" or "a potential danger"?

While both phrases are similar, "a potential risk" implies a possibility of loss or harm, while "a potential danger" suggests a more immediate threat to safety. Choose the phrase that best reflects the specific situation.

What's the difference between "a potential danger" and "a clear and present danger"?

"A potential danger" indicates a possible future threat, while "a clear and present danger" refers to an immediate and obvious threat that requires urgent action.