adverse circumstances

USAGE SUMMARY

"adverse circumstances" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to conditions or situations that are unfavorable, difficult, or disadvantageous. For example: "The company's success was hindered by the adverse circumstances of the global economic recession."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

As a business leader, I have learned one thing above all – about adverse circumstances: It is a certainty that those who venture more, risk more adversity.

Forbes

3. Prepare for adverse circumstances.

Harvard University

I was working under adverse circumstances.

The New York Times

"A lot of it's under adverse circumstances," the official said.

The New York Times

Grief and adverse circumstances aren't going to get Sara down.

The Guardian

Its revelations include: "Make a fortune under adverse circumstances".

The New York Times

"Younger people underestimate our ability to adapt to adverse circumstances".

The New York Times

Winning the championship under such adverse circumstances would be a great accomplishment.

The New York Times - Sports

Despite adverse circumstances, Aaron maintained a most positive attitude toward life.

The New York Times

He would not be beaten by adverse circumstances, would not beg, or plead.

The Guardian

"If I managed to win under adverse circumstances once, then I can do it again".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "adverse circumstances" to describe complex situations involving multiple unfavorable factors. It adds a level of formality suitable for academic and professional writing.

Common error

Avoid using "adverse circumstances" in casual conversation. Simpler terms like "difficulties" or "tough times" are more appropriate for informal settings.

Linguistic Context

Adverse circumstances functions as a noun phrase typically used as the object of a preposition or as a subject complement. It describes a set of unfavorable conditions impacting a situation or entity. Ludwig examples show its use in describing challenging situations that require adaptation or resilience.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

28%

Academia

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

8%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "adverse circumstances" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to describe unfavorable or challenging situations. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability across various contexts. Analysis of real-world examples reveals that it is most commonly found in News & Media, Science, and Academia sources, suggesting a neutral to formal register. When a less formal tone is preferred, alternatives such as "difficult situations" or "tough times" may be more appropriate. To enhance clarity and impact, use "adverse circumstances" when referring to complex scenarios involving multiple unfavorable factors.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

difficult situations

Focuses more on the general difficulty rather than the specific nature of the circumstances.

challenging conditions

Emphasizes the demanding nature of the conditions.

unfavorable conditions

Highlights the lack of advantage in the conditions.

tough times

A more informal way to refer to a period of difficulty.

hardship

Focuses on the suffering and deprivation caused by the circumstances.

misfortune

Highlights the element of bad luck.

setbacks

Focuses on obstacles that delay or prevent progress.

trials and tribulations

Emphasizes the prolonged nature of the difficulties.

ill-fated events

Focuses on the negative outcome of events.

dire straits

Implies a severe and urgent situation.

FAQs

How can I use "adverse circumstances" in a sentence?

"Adverse circumstances" is used to describe unfavorable or difficult situations. For example: "Despite the "adverse circumstances", the team managed to complete the project on time."

What are some alternatives to "adverse circumstances"?

Alternatives include "difficult situations", "challenging conditions", or "unfavorable conditions" depending on the context.

Is "adverse circumstances" formal or informal language?

"Adverse circumstances" is generally considered formal language and is suitable for academic, professional, and news-related writing.

What's the difference between "adverse circumstances" and "difficulties"?

"Adverse circumstances" implies a complex set of unfavorable conditions, while "difficulties" is a more general term for challenges or problems. "Adverse circumstances" carries a stronger sense of severity.