an imminent danger

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an imminent danger" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation that poses an immediate threat or risk. Example: "The storm warning indicated that there was an imminent danger of flooding in the area."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It also poses an "imminent danger" to local newspapers.

The Guardian

It goes back to, was he an imminent danger to himself?

The New York Times

However, the UNHCR told The Independent that it did not believe there was an imminent danger.

Independent

College administrators grew concerned that Marberger could present an imminent danger.

The Washington Post

Both Trump and Pence pose an imminent danger to the integrity of American democracy.

The Washington Post

They regard Saddam Hussein as an imminent danger and would love to see him removed.

The New York Times

While fearing an imminent danger for the hostages, Nigerian authorities activated the rescue".

The Guardian

With demand weak and the fiscal vice tightening, it is hard to see an imminent danger of inflation.

The Economist

That is an imminent danger, according to refugees sheltering in the Mor Hobil-Mor Abrohom monastery outside of Midyat.

The New York Times

The only caveat: If a doctor believes the person is an imminent danger to themselves or others.

Independent

He made an "imminent danger" run in the mine, checked for dust collection and inspected the toilet, the notes say.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an imminent danger", ensure the context clearly establishes what is threatened. Specificity strengthens the impact of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "an imminent danger" if the threat is potential or distant. Use it only when the danger is realistically about to occur. Overusing this phrase can diminish its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an imminent danger" functions as a noun phrase, specifically acting as a subject complement or object of a verb/preposition. It identifies or describes something that poses an immediate threat, as supported by examples in Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Academia

18%

Science

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "an imminent danger" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe an immediate threat. As confirmed by Ludwig, it functions as a noun phrase with a warning communicative purpose suitable for neutral to formal registers. While seen most often in news, its presence in academic and scientific sources highlights its versatility. Keep in mind, context is key—use the phrase to convey real and immediate threats and be specific about what is threatened to amplify your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an immediate threat

Focuses on the immediacy of the danger, downplaying the potential for it to occur.

a looming threat

Emphasizes the threatening nature and its impending arrival.

a present risk

Highlights the existence of a risk that is currently in effect.

a clear and present danger

This phrase adds emphasis on the clarity of the danger, making it distinctly visible and understandable.

an approaching peril

Stresses the idea of something dangerous drawing near.

a brewing crisis

Indicates a crisis that is developing and will soon emerge.

an impending disaster

Focuses on the catastrophic nature of the event about to happen.

a gathering storm

Uses metaphorical language to suggest a problematic situation that is intensifying.

a coming catastrophe

Emphasizes the disastrous consequences that are predicted to occur.

a ticking time bomb

Highlights the potential for sudden and destructive consequences.

FAQs

How to use "an imminent danger" in a sentence?

Use "an imminent danger" to describe a situation posing an immediate threat. For example: "The approaching hurricane represents "an imminent danger" to coastal residents."

What can I say instead of "an imminent danger"?

You can use alternatives like "an immediate threat", "a looming threat", or "a present risk" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "the imminent danger" or "an imminent danger"?

Both can be correct, but "an imminent danger" is generally used when referring to a general or unspecified threat. "The imminent danger" is more appropriate when referring to a specific, previously mentioned threat.

What's the difference between "an imminent danger" and "a potential risk"?

"An imminent danger" suggests a threat is about to materialize, while "a potential risk" indicates a possibility of harm that may or may not occur. Imminence implies greater certainty and urgency.