a real danger

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a real danger" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or condition that poses a significant threat or risk. Example: "The rising sea levels present a real danger to coastal communities around the world."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This is a real danger.

The New York Times

It's a real danger.

The Guardian

Is global warming a real danger?

The New York Times - Books

"There's a real danger here.

The Guardian

This was a real danger".

The New York Times

"It's a real danger zone".

The New York Times

"I'm a real danger to the landlord".

The New York Times

They posed a real danger to Christian Spain.

The New York Times - Books

Yet Irving does represent a real danger.

The Guardian - Books

"That," he said, "is a real danger".

The New York Times

"However, there is a real danger.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a real danger", be specific about what the danger entails. Providing context and examples will strengthen your statement and make it more impactful.

Common error

Avoid using "a real danger" when the risk is already apparent or minimal. This can weaken your overall argument and make you sound alarmist. Focus on situations where the danger needs to be emphasized or clarified.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a real danger" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig provides numerous examples where it describes situations posing significant threats, aligning with its function to identify and highlight potential harm.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a real danger" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to highlight significant threats or risks. Ludwig confirms its widespread use across various contexts, primarily in news and media, science, and formal business settings. Given its neutral register, it's appropriate for diverse communications, emphasizing the authenticity and potential impact of the danger. When using this phrase, clarity and specificity are key to maximizing its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a genuine threat

Focuses on the authenticity and seriousness of the danger.

a serious hazard

Highlights the potential for accidents or harm.

a significant risk

Emphasizes the magnitude and probability of a negative outcome.

a grave peril

Implies a severe and imminent threat.

a major threat

Highlights the scale and impact of the danger.

a substantial hazard

Focuses on the considerable size or degree of the hazard.

a considerable risk

Stresses the importance and weight of the potential risk.

a present danger

Highlights the immediacy and actuality of the threat.

a looming threat

Suggests the danger is approaching and becoming more apparent.

a credible threat

Focuses on the believability and trustworthiness of the danger.

FAQs

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

You can use "a real danger" to emphasize a potential threat or risk. For example, "Ignoring safety protocols presents "a real danger" to workers" or "The lack of funding poses "a real danger" to the project's success."

What are some alternatives to "a real danger"?

Alternatives to "a real danger" include "a genuine threat", "a serious risk", or "a grave peril". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of emphasis you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "a real danger"? Can't danger just be assumed to be real?

While "danger" often implies a genuine threat, using "a real danger" can reinforce the seriousness or immediacy of the risk, especially when there might be doubt or downplaying of the situation. It serves to emphasize the authenticity and potential impact of the danger.

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

"A real danger" suggests that the threat is present and likely to materialize, whereas "a potential danger" implies that the danger is possible but not yet certain. "A real danger" is more immediate and pressing than "a potential danger".