could compromise

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "could compromise" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a situation where something may be put at risk or negatively affected. Example: "The new policy could compromise the safety of our employees if not implemented properly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This could compromise her case.

The Economist

Video: Snapchat security weaknesses could compromise users  .

Independent

That could compromise attempts to bring the crisis under control.

The New York Times

Doing so could compromise national security, Pentagon officials say.

The New York Times

"It could compromise our judgment in the field," he answered.

The New York Times

"If left unaddressed, these risks could compromise global financial stability".

The Guardian - Business

Any movement, he said, could compromise the boat's shape.

The New Yorker

Dr. Lederman said such releases could compromise the patient's dignity.

The New York Times

Fears that this could compromise Ireland's neutrality were played up by the no side.

The Economist

Opponents worry that taller buildings could compromise the District's short-statured charm.

The New York Times

Expansion could compromise Zone Gourmet's appeal.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "could compromise", consider the specific aspect being threatened and choose more descriptive verbs if greater clarity or impact is desired. For example, instead of "could compromise security", you might say "could undermine security" or "could endanger security" depending on the context.

Common error

Avoid using "could compromise" without clearly specifying what is at risk and how. Vague statements can weaken your argument. Instead of just saying "the plan could compromise things", explain exactly which aspects are threatened and the potential consequences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "could compromise" functions as a modal verb phrase used to express a possibility or potential consequence. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. It indicates that a particular action or situation has the potential to weaken or endanger something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Social Media

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "could compromise" is a versatile modal verb phrase that effectively conveys potential risk or harm. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. It is commonly found in both scientific and news contexts, serving to caution or warn about potential negative impacts. While there are several semantically similar alternatives—such as "might endanger" or "could jeopardize"—the choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. Remember to specify what exactly is at risk to avoid vagueness. By understanding its function, purpose, and suitable contexts, you can effectively use "could compromise" to add precision to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

could put at risk

A more explicit way of saying something is exposed to potential harm or loss.

might endanger

Emphasizes the potential for harm or danger, suggesting a more severe outcome than simply compromising.

could jeopardize

Highlights the risk of failure or loss, often in a situation with high stakes.

might put in danger

Similar to "might endanger" but a little more explicit.

might undermine

Focuses on weakening the foundation or effectiveness of something, rather than a complete failure.

might threaten

Suggests a direct and imminent danger or risk to something.

might imperil

Similar to endanger, but often used in more formal or literary contexts.

could weaken

Indicates a reduction in strength or effectiveness, without necessarily implying complete failure.

might impair

Focuses on diminishing the function or ability of something.

could damage

Implies physical or non-physical harm that could reduce value or functionality.

FAQs

How can I use "could compromise" in a sentence?

Use "could compromise" to indicate that something has the potential to weaken, damage, or put something else at risk. For example: "Releasing the data publicly "could compromise" the privacy of individuals."

What are some alternatives to "could compromise"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "might endanger", "could jeopardize", or "might undermine". These phrases convey varying degrees of risk and impact.

Which is correct: "could compromise" or "can compromise"?

"Could compromise" indicates a possibility or potential outcome, while "can compromise" suggests a capability or general ability. Use "could" when discussing a potential risk or consequence. The phrase "could", implies a conditional or possible action, whereas "can" implies an ability or permission to act. "The policy can compromise user data" suggests a general capability of the policy, which might not be what you intend. "The policy "could compromise" user data" better conveys the intended meaning.

What's the difference between "could compromise" and "might compromise"?

"Could compromise" and "might compromise" are often used interchangeably, but "could" suggests a slightly higher degree of possibility than "might". Both indicate a potential risk or negative outcome, but "could" implies a slightly stronger chance of the event occurring.