cast a cloud over

USAGE SUMMARY

"cast a cloud over" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to describe a situation where something dark, unpleasant or difficult has a negative effect on something else. Example: The news of the company's financial troubles cast a cloud over the staff's enthusiasm.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

The inquiry may cast a cloud over the Heinz deal.

The New York Times

The dispute had cast a cloud over Mr. Summers's administration.

The New York Times

And it cast a cloud over my second term".

The Guardian

The growing inquiry may cast a cloud over the Heinz deal.

The New York Times

But future court action may cast a cloud over those ambitions.

The New York Times

But the continual delays have cast a cloud over the project.

The New York Times

"This faulty process has cast a cloud over the board," Mr. Sarbanes said.

The New York Times

But Mr. Madden's arrest yesterday cast a cloud over his fast-growing company.

The New York Times

"How dare these Democrats cast a cloud over the entire Democratic Party?

The New York Times

The case looks certain to cast a cloud over Beijing's Olympic preparations.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

And in a telling aside in its judgment, the Court said that hand recounts would 'cast a cloud' over Bush's 'legitimacy' that would harm 'democratic stability'.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "cast a cloud over" to describe situations where an event or piece of information negatively impacts an otherwise positive or promising scenario. It's effective for conveying a sense of unease or diminished optimism.

Common error

Avoid using "cast a cloud over" for minor inconveniences. The phrase implies a significant and pervasive negative impact, not just a slight annoyance. Consider milder alternatives like "slightly affected" for less serious situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cast a cloud over" functions as an idiomatic verb phrase. It's used to express that something negative or unpleasant is having an adverse effect on a situation, event, or person. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "cast a cloud over" is a commonly used and grammatically sound idiomatic expression that describes a negative impact on a situation or event. According to Ludwig AI, it’s correct and widely used. Primarily found in news and media contexts, it serves to highlight concerns or express disapproval. When writing, ensure the intensity of the phrase matches the significance of the negative effect you're describing. Consider alternative phrases like "overshadow" or "cast a shadow on" for similar but slightly different connotations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

overshadow

A single word emphasizing the act of something being more prominent and negative.

cast a shadow on

Focuses on the creation of doubt or negativity, similar in impact.

put a damper on

Highlights the reduction of enjoyment or enthusiasm.

spoil

Emphasizes the ruining or diminishing of something's positive qualities.

tarnish

Suggests a loss of luster or reputation.

mar

Emphasizes the act of damaging or defacing something, often subtly.

blight

Suggests a severe and pervasive negative influence.

muddy the waters

Focuses on the act of making something unclear or complicated, implying a negative impact on understanding or progress.

throw a wet blanket on

Highlights the suppression of excitement or progress.

sour

Suggests that something positive has turned negative or unpleasant.

FAQs

How can I use "cast a cloud over" in a sentence?

Use "cast a cloud over" to indicate that something is negatively affecting a situation or event, creating doubt or uncertainty. For example, "The scandal "cast a cloud over" the company's future."

What are some alternatives to "cast a cloud over"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "overshadow", "cast a shadow on", or "put a damper on".

Is it better to say "cast a cloud over" or "cast a shadow over"?

Both "cast a cloud over" and "cast a shadow over" are correct and similar in meaning. The choice depends on the nuance you want to convey. "Cast a cloud over" might suggest a more pervasive and lingering effect, while "cast a shadow over" could imply a more immediate or direct impact.

Can "cast a cloud over" be used in a positive context?

No, "cast a cloud over" is inherently negative. It implies a sense of gloom, doubt, or negativity affecting something. To express a positive influence, use phrases like "brighten" or "enhance".