could be dangerous

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "could be dangerous" is correct and can be used in written English.
This phrase is often used to suggest that something may have the potential to cause harm. For example: The chemicals in the lab could be dangerous, so make sure you wear safety goggles.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This could be dangerous.

The New York Times

Everything could be dangerous.

The Guardian - Film

"He could be dangerous.

The New York Times - Sports

"It could be dangerous," Ms. Popal said.

The New York Times

"It could be dangerous on the stage".

The New York Times

Simon said statistics could be dangerous.

The New York Times - Sports

That could be dangerous for the proselytizers.

The New York Times - Magazine

It could be dangerous in certain situations".

The New York Times - Sports

It could be dangerous work.

The Guardian - Books

His diffidence could be dangerous.

The Guardian

"I think this could be dangerous".

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "could be dangerous" to express a possibility, not a certainty. If the danger is confirmed, use stronger language such as "is dangerous".

Common error

Avoid using "could be dangerous" when the risk is minimal or non-existent. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "could be dangerous" functions as a modal verb phrase, expressing a possibility or potential for harm. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is used to suggest that something may have the potential to cause harm. Examples show its versatility in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

18%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "could be dangerous" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that expresses a potential risk or hazard. As Ludwig AI notes, it indicates that something has the possibility of causing harm. Its usage spans various contexts, including news, science, and academia, with a neutral register. When writing, clearly specify the potential danger to avoid vagueness. Alternatives like "might pose a threat" or "may present a hazard" can be used depending on the specific context. Avoid overstating the risk to maintain credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

might pose a threat

Focuses on the threatening aspect, implying a potential danger.

may present a hazard

Highlights the hazardous nature, suggesting a risk of harm.

carries a risk

Emphasizes the presence of an inherent risk factor.

has the potential for harm

Directly addresses the possibility of causing harm.

could lead to injury

Specifically points to physical injury as a possible outcome.

may have adverse consequences

Broadly suggests negative outcomes without specifying the type of danger.

presents a precarious situation

Highlights the instability and potential for danger in a situation.

involves a degree of peril

Emphasizes the presence of peril or serious danger.

is fraught with hazard

Highlights a situation filled with potential hazards and dangers.

bears an element of risk

Similar to "carries a risk" but emphasizes a specific element.

FAQs

How can I use "could be dangerous" in a sentence?

Use "could be dangerous" to express a possibility of harm or risk. For example, "Consuming this substance "could be dangerous" if you are allergic to it."

What are some alternatives to "could be dangerous"?

You can use alternatives like "might pose a threat", "may present a hazard", or "carries a risk" depending on the specific context.

Is there a difference between "could be dangerous" and "is dangerous"?

"Could be dangerous" suggests a possibility of harm, while "is dangerous" indicates a confirmed or certain danger. The former implies uncertainty, while the latter implies certainty.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "could be dangerous"?

It is appropriate when you want to express a potential risk or harm, but you are not certain about the outcome. It is often used to warn or advise caution in a situation where the consequences are uncertain.