a time bomb

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a time bomb" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used metaphorically to describe a situation that is unstable and likely to lead to a sudden crisis or explosion of problems. Example: "The unresolved issues in the project are like a time bomb, waiting to cause chaos if not addressed soon."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

My arse is a time bomb, lads.

The New Yorker

"Steroids are a time bomb," she said.

The New York Times

Pakistan is a time bomb.

The Washington Post

"They're like a time bomb.

The New York Times - Sports

"Falluja is a time bomb".

The New York Times

Obesity: a time bomb to be defused.

Nature

"For me, Gaza is a time bomb.

The Guardian

"It was like a time bomb".

The New York Times - Health

"I've said this is a time bomb.

The New York Times

"It's a time bomb here," he said.

The New York Times

In effect, he's a time bomb.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In formal writing, pair the phrase with a specific subject to clarify what exactly is at risk, such as "the nation's debt is a time bomb".

Common error

When writing about security or explosives, ensure the context clearly differentiates between a metaphorical "a time bomb" (a social issue) and a literal explosive device to avoid unintended alarmism.

How to use

Learn how to use "a time bomb" with practical examples and tips.

How to use

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a time bomb" primarily functions as a metaphorical noun phrase used as a predicate nominative to characterize a subject as inherently dangerous and destined for crisis. According to Ludwig AI, it frequently identifies structural, health or geopolitical vulnerabilities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Wiki

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The analysis of "a time bomb" reveals its status as a powerful and pervasive metaphor in modern English. Ludwig AI demonstrates that it is used across elite journalistic and scientific platforms to describe everything from obesity and climate change to economic bubbles and political unrest. The core strength of the phrase lies in its ability to translate complex, slow-developing risks into a single, urgent image of an explosion. While it is grammatically correct and highly usable, writers should be mindful of its dramatic tone, ensuring it matches the severity of the situation being described.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a ticking time bomb

Adds the auditory element of ticking to heighten the sense of an active countdown

a disaster waiting to happen

Focuses more on the inevitable failure than the timing mechanism

a powder keg

Uses a different historical metaphor for explosive volatility

an impending crisis

A more literal and professional way to describe a looming problem

a ticking clock

Shifts the focus entirely to the limited time remaining

a looming disaster

Emphasizes the visual sense of a large problem approaching

a volatile situation

Describes the current state of instability rather than the future explosion

an accident waiting to happen

Specifically used for safety risks and physical hazards

a flashpoint

Refers to the specific moment or place where a conflict explodes

a slow-motion train wreck

Describes a disaster that is clearly visible but cannot be stopped

FAQs

How do I use "a time bomb" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe an unstable situation, for example: "The current housing market is "a time bomb" waiting to explode."

What is the difference between "a time bomb" and "a ticking time bomb"?

While essentially identical in meaning, "a ticking time bomb" emphasizes that the countdown has already started and the end is near.

Can I use "a time bomb" in professional reports?

Yes, though it is slightly idiomatic. In very formal contexts, you might prefer "an impending crisis" or "a systemic risk".

Is "a time bomb" considered a cliché?

It is a very common metaphor. To avoid a cliché, consider using "a powder keg" if the situation is explosive due to tension rather than a timer.