brewing storm

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "brewing storm" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used metaphorically to describe a situation that is developing into a conflict or problem, often implying that trouble is on the horizon. Example: "The tensions between the two countries have been escalating for months, and many analysts believe a brewing storm could lead to conflict."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

Another option is warning B. about the brewing storm (and I imagine she will take actions to save her marriage).

The New York Times - Magazine

Yet Renoir's movie also displays, with tender whimsy, the director's own sort of aesthetic redemption of technique — one that is, however, impotent before the brewing storm.

The New Yorker

Even a brewing storm here over imported Asian shrimp found to be contaminated with a dangerous antibiotic, chloramphenicol, could end up hurting the domestic shrimpers, they fear.

The New York Times

Yet Renoir's movie also displays, with tender whimsy, the director's own sort of aesthetic redemption of technique one that is, however, impotent before the brewing storm.

The New Yorker

Despite the brewing storm, Sony's strong showing in the period ended June 30 suggests that Japan's battered electronics industry is bouncing back from its worst downturn in decades.

The New York Times

A return to the small screen, Fringe centres around "a female agent forced to work with institutionalised scientists in order to rationalise a brewing storm of unexplained phenomena".

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

Hurricane season is in full swing, with brewing storms that have the potential to threaten many vacation plans.

Huffington Post

Despite the management reorganization and the brewing legal storm, shares of State Street rose $5.54, or 7.0%, to $84.42.

Forbes

He brewed a storm for this composition.

Vice

Thankfully, these unlikely preservers of law and order were there to quell the brewing shit-storm.

Vice

And the lake brews epic storms, dumping four or more feet of snow at a time.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the specific connotations of a storm – disruption, chaos, and potential damage – to ensure the metaphor aligns with the intended meaning.

Common error

While "brewing storm" is a vivid metaphor, overuse can diminish its impact. Opt for more specific or original phrasing to describe the situation, such as "rising tensions" or "gathering clouds", to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "brewing storm" functions as a metaphorical noun phrase, often serving as a subject or object in a sentence. It paints a vivid picture of an impending crisis or conflict. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Arts

20%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "brewing storm" is a commonly used metaphorical phrase that effectively communicates the development of an impending crisis or conflict. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically sound and applicable across various contexts. Its usage is prevalent in News & Media, Arts, and Business, indicating its versatility. While effective, avoid overusing this cliché by considering alternative expressions like "gathering storm" or "impending crisis". The expert rating reflects its consistent and appropriate application across reputable sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gathering storm

Indicates a problem is intensifying and about to become significant, similar to "brewing storm" but with a slightly stronger sense of immediacy.

impending crisis

Focuses on the negative outcome that is likely to occur, emphasizing the severity of the situation more than "brewing storm".

looming threat

Highlights the danger or potential harm involved, differing from "brewing storm" by emphasizing the perceived risk.

developing crisis

Emphasizes the ongoing nature of the problem as it unfolds, whereas "brewing storm" suggests a buildup before impact.

gathering clouds

Uses similar meteorological imagery to convey an approaching problem, focusing on the accumulation of issues.

rising tensions

Specifically refers to increasing conflict or strain, whereas "brewing storm" can refer to a broader range of problems.

simmering conflict

Implies that the conflict is already present but not yet at its peak, unlike "brewing storm" which suggests the beginning of the process.

building pressure

Focuses on the accumulation of stress or strain that could lead to a breaking point, differing from the meteorological imagery of "brewing storm".

approaching danger

Directly points to imminent peril or risk, while "brewing storm" uses a more figurative expression.

nascent problem

Highlights that the problem is just beginning to emerge, but lacks the sense of impending trouble conveyed by "brewing storm".

FAQs

How can I use "brewing storm" in a sentence?

You can use "brewing storm" to describe a situation where trouble or conflict is developing. For example, "The trade disputes signaled a "brewing storm" in international relations."

What are some alternatives to "brewing storm"?

Alternatives include "gathering storm", "impending crisis", or "looming threat", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "brewing storm" a formal or informal expression?

"Brewing storm" is generally considered a neutral expression, suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, more academic or scientific writing may favor more literal language.

What does it mean when someone says there's a "storm brewing"?

When someone says there's a "storm brewing", it means that a problem or difficult situation is developing and likely to cause trouble in the near future. It suggests tension and impending conflict.