are fraught with pitfalls

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are fraught with pitfalls" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is typically used to indicate that a specific situation is fraught with potential danger or difficulty. You can use this phrase to describe any difficult situation. For example, "Business negotiations with foreign entities are fraught with pitfalls that can be difficult to navigate."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Due to the complexity of health system reform in the post-conflict, post-disaster, and development settings, attempts to restructure health services are fraught with pitfalls that are often unanticipated because of inadequate preliminary assessments.

BMC Health Services Research

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Some statisticians said the Air Force study was fraught with pitfalls.

The New York Times

But future U.S. engagement is fraught with pitfalls.

The Washington Post

The use of traditional focus groups has sometimes been fraught with pitfalls for marketers.

The New York Times

THINK buying a second home with your best friends is fraught with pitfalls?

The New York Times - Travel

Every new experience is fraught with pitfalls and humiliations, there for the witnessing.

The New York Times

As California winemakers learned in the 1980's, the pinot noir business is fraught with pitfalls.

The New York Times - Food

But stepping poolside is fraught with pitfalls with regard to what type of swimwear you actually wear.

Independent

But in such a complex situation, even what may appear to be the best move is fraught with pitfalls.

The New Yorker

But stepping poolside is fraught with pitfalls with regards to what type of swimwear you actually wear.

Independent

That continues to be true even though aiming pitches at youngsters and their families can be fraught with pitfalls.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are fraught with pitfalls", be specific about the potential dangers or difficulties involved to provide clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "are fraught with pitfalls" in overly casual settings. Opt for simpler, more direct language unless aiming for a heightened sense of formality or seriousness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are fraught with pitfalls" functions as a predicate adjective, describing a noun or noun phrase as being filled with potential dangers or difficulties. Ludwig AI confirms this is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are fraught with pitfalls" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to describe situations laden with potential dangers or difficulties. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and wide applicability. Predominantly found in news, science, and formal business contexts, it serves as a cautionary signal, urging careful consideration and planning. When employing this phrase, ensure specificity and avoid overuse in informal settings to maintain its impact and formality. Alternatives such as "are riddled with dangers" or "are filled with risks" can offer subtle variations in meaning, depending on the intended emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are riddled with dangers

Focuses on the presence of numerous dangers.

are filled with risks

Emphasizes the presence of multiple risks.

are fraught with challenges

Highlights the presence of significant difficulties.

are laden with problems

Indicates a heavy presence of problems.

are beset with difficulties

Focuses on being troubled or harassed by difficulties.

pose considerable hazards

Highlights the presence of dangers, with different structure.

present significant risks

Focuses on the existence of notable risks.

are prone to complications

Emphasizes the likelihood of complications arising.

are attended by perils

Highlights the association of perils with something.

are subject to setbacks

Focuses on the possibility of experiencing setbacks.

FAQs

How can I use "are fraught with pitfalls" in a sentence?

You can use "are fraught with pitfalls" to describe situations or actions that involve potential dangers or difficulties. For example, "Navigating international trade agreements "are fraught with pitfalls" for inexperienced businesses".

What are some alternatives to "are fraught with pitfalls"?

Some alternatives include "are riddled with dangers", "are filled with risks", or "are fraught with challenges". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "is fraught with pitfalls" or "are fraught with pitfalls"?

The correct form depends on the subject. Use "is fraught with pitfalls" for singular subjects and "are fraught with pitfalls" for plural subjects. For example, "The negotiation is fraught with pitfalls," but "These negotiations "are fraught with pitfalls"".

What does "fraught with pitfalls" mean?

"Fraught with pitfalls" means filled with potential dangers, difficulties, or problems. It suggests that a particular course of action or situation is likely to lead to negative outcomes if not handled carefully.