be in trouble

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be in trouble" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when someone is facing difficulties, problems, or a difficult situation. For example: "If you don't finish your project on time, you'll be in trouble."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Be in trouble.

The Guardian - Film

you'd be in trouble...

The Washington Post

"You'd be in trouble.

The New York Times - Magazine

I figured she might be in trouble.

The New York Times

But he may now be in trouble.

The Economist

George Bush may be in trouble.

The Economist

And you might be in trouble".

The New York Times

And then I would be in trouble.

The New Yorker

"We will be in trouble".

The New York Times

"Then we'll be in trouble".

The New York Times

Will he be in trouble?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be in trouble", ensure the context clearly indicates the source or cause of the trouble. For example, specify who or what is causing the difficulty.

Common error

Avoid using "be in trouble" without specifying the nature or severity of the trouble. Provide enough context for the reader to understand the implications.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be in trouble" functions as a predicate adjective phrase, describing the state or condition of a subject. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

15%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be in trouble" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe a state of difficulty or facing negative consequences. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability across various contexts, predominantly in news and media. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the cause or nature of the trouble. Consider alternatives like "face difficulties" or "be at risk" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember to avoid overly vague usage and provide sufficient context for the reader to understand the implications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

face difficulties

Emphasizes the act of confronting challenges or hardships, shifting the focus from the state to the action.

encounter problems

Highlights the experience of running into issues or obstacles, suggesting a more passive involvement.

be at risk

Focuses on the potential danger or negative consequences, rather than the current state of difficulty.

be in a predicament

Implies a difficult or perplexing situation, often suggesting a need for a clever solution.

be in hot water

An idiom indicating a state of disfavor or potential punishment, often due to one's own actions.

be up against it

Suggests facing significant obstacles or challenges, requiring considerable effort to overcome.

be in a tight spot

Highlights a situation where one has limited options or resources, making escape or resolution difficult.

find oneself in dire straits

Emphasizes the severity and urgency of the difficult situation, indicating significant potential for negative outcomes.

be skating on thin ice

Indicates a precarious situation where one is close to making a mistake or facing negative consequences.

be walking a tightrope

Implies a need for careful and precise action to avoid failure or negative repercussions.

FAQs

How can I use "be in trouble" in a sentence?

You can use "be in trouble" to describe a situation where someone is facing difficulties or negative consequences. For example: "If you don't submit your report on time, you'll "be in trouble" with your manager."

What are some alternatives to "be in trouble"?

Alternatives include "face difficulties", "encounter problems", or "be at risk", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "be in trouble" or "have trouble"?

While both phrases are correct, "be in trouble" generally refers to a state of facing negative consequences, while "have trouble" indicates difficulty doing something. For example: "He will "be in trouble" if he doesn't finish his work" versus "I "have trouble" understanding this concept".

What's the difference between "be in trouble" and "get into trouble"?

"Be in trouble" describes a current state of difficulty, whereas "get into trouble" describes the action of entering that state. For instance, "He is "be in trouble" now because he decided to "get into trouble" last night.