brink of disaster

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "brink of disaster" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation that is very close to becoming disastrous or catastrophic. Example: "The company was on the brink of disaster after the major data breach, prompting immediate action from the management team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"They're on the brink of disaster.

The New Yorker

G rale was "on the brink of disaster".

The New York Times

Israel Is on the Brink of Disaster.

The New York Times

Are the funds on the brink of disaster?

The Economist

He found the organization on the brink of disaster.

The New Yorker

ONCE again, Russia's finances are on the brink of disaster.

The Economist

IRAQ today stands on the brink of disaster.

The New York Times

Japanese banks have been on the brink of disaster before.

The Economist

The FDP often teeters on the brink of disaster.

The Economist

They led him to the brink of disaster.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

A 2-liter 4-cylinder, turbocharged to a brink-of-disaster 17.9 p.s.i. of boost.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "brink of disaster" with specific details to enhance its impact. For example, instead of saying "The project was on the brink of disaster", specify why: "The project was on the brink of disaster due to budget overruns and missed deadlines".

Common error

Avoid using "brink of disaster" to describe minor setbacks or inconveniences. Overusing the phrase dilutes its impact and can make your writing sound melodramatic. Reserve it for truly serious and critical situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "brink of disaster" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as a predicate nominative or object of a preposition. It signifies a situation that is very close to becoming a catastrophe. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Academia

6%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "brink of disaster" is a versatile and widely used expression that effectively conveys the precariousness of a situation teetering on the edge of catastrophe. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically sound and appropriate for use in a broad spectrum of writing contexts, particularly in news, media, and academic settings. While synonyms like ""verge of collapse"" or ""edge of ruin"" offer nuanced alternatives, the core message of impending calamity remains consistent. Remember to use it judiciously to maintain its impact and avoid hyperbole.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

precipice of catastrophe

Highlights the sudden and severe nature of the potential disaster.

threshold of calamity

Stresses the impending arrival of a significant misfortune.

edge of ruin

Emphasizes the potential for complete destruction or failure.

verge of collapse

Focuses on the potential for structural or systemic failure.

facing imminent failure

Highlights the closeness and certainty of potential failure.

in dire straits

Focuses on the severity of the current difficult situation.

point of no return

Indicates a situation where the negative outcome is unavoidable.

on thin ice

Implies a risky situation where mistakes can lead to negative consequences.

on the rocks

Suggests severe difficulties threatening failure, often used for relationships or businesses.

at a critical juncture

Emphasizes the importance of the moment in averting potential disaster.

FAQs

How can I use "brink of disaster" in a sentence?

You can use "brink of disaster" to describe situations that are about to become catastrophic. For example, "The company was on the brink of disaster due to poor financial management" or "The ecosystem is on the brink of disaster because of pollution".

What phrases are similar to "brink of disaster"?

Similar phrases include "verge of collapse", "edge of ruin", and "precipice of catastrophe". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "brink of disaster" in formal writing?

Yes, "brink of disaster" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when describing serious situations. However, consider your audience and the overall tone of your piece. In some contexts, a more neutral phrase might be preferable.

What's the difference between "brink of disaster" and "risk of disaster"?

"Brink of disaster" implies a higher degree of immediacy and likelihood than "risk of disaster". "Brink of disaster" suggests that the disaster is imminent unless immediate action is taken, while "risk of disaster" indicates a possibility of a negative outcome.