cracks begin to form

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cracks begin to form" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the onset of problems or issues, often in a metaphorical sense, indicating that something is starting to break down or show signs of failure. Example: "As the pressure mounted, cracks began to form in their once-unbreakable friendship."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Tiny cracks begin to form through contact with other surfaces, or even with water vapor and carbon dioxide.

The New York Times - Science

When magma - the molten and semi-molten rock that can pour out of volcanoes - starts to cool, it contracts and cracks begin to form.

BBC

Upon applying a 10% strain, cracks begin to form in the direction perpendicular to the straining direction while buckling occurs at the same time due to the compressive stress acting perpendicularly to the direction of the tensile stress, as shown in Figure 2b.

Nanoscale Research Letters

We can only practice 'impression management' for so long before cracks begin to form, hopefully letting something a little more authentic through.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

As load increased, the existing cracks advanced further and new cracks began to form inside the openings, which ultimately lead to the failure at the beam's chords.

International Journal of Concrete Structures and Materials

My eyes adjust to the light of this sheltered space and I see small cracks beginning to form on the walls, slowly advancing and expanding until they become large enough to slip into.

Huffington Post

Tap the hammer against the chisel repeatedly until a crack begins to form.

WikiHow

Hillary once travelled to China -- where she said that "Women's rights are human rights" - but that's exactly where the cracks in the narrative edifice begin to form.

Huffington Post

For higher loads, new cracks, for which initiation sites are located on the edges of the indent, begin to form (secondary cracking).

Surface and Coatings Technology

The cracks along the bonding interface between steel fibers and matrix begin to expand, and the cracks across the melting channel of PPF begin to form.

International Journal of Concrete Structures and Materials

The tears begin to form.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "cracks begin to form", consider the context carefully. It's often used metaphorically to describe the onset of problems within a system, relationship, or structure. Ensure the image of cracking is relevant to your subject.

Common error

While "cracks begin to form" is a vivid image, avoid overusing it, especially in close proximity to other figurative language. Over-reliance on cliches can weaken your writing. Instead use alternatives such as "fault lines start to appear" or "signs of weakness emerge".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cracks begin to form" functions as a verb phrase indicating the commencement of a process or state, often used metaphorically to describe the onset of problems or deterioration. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "cracks begin to form" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression that signifies the start of problems or deterioration. It is employed across a range of contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Wiki. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its validity and provides context for its usage. While versatile, it's important to avoid overuse and consider alternative expressions like "problems start to surface" or "fault lines start to appear" for varied expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the facade starts to crumble

Implies that an outer appearance of strength is failing.

fault lines start to appear

Implies underlying weaknesses becoming visible, similar to geological cracks.

issues start to develop

Focuses on the gradual unfolding of problems.

signs of weakness emerge

Highlights the appearance of vulnerabilities.

problems start to surface

Focuses on the emergence of issues rather than physical cracks.

flaws become apparent

Focuses on the revealing of imperfections.

troubles begin to emerge

Highlights the initial visibility of problems.

difficulties start to arise

Emphasizes the commencement of challenging situations.

the situation starts to unravel

Suggests a process of disintegration or falling apart.

instabilities begin to manifest

Emphasizes the appearance of a lack of stability.

FAQs

How can I use "cracks begin to form" in a sentence?

You can use "cracks begin to form" to describe the start of problems or issues in a situation, relationship, or structure. For example: "As the pressure increased, "cracks begin to form" in their alliance."

What are some alternatives to "cracks begin to form"?

Alternatives include "problems start to surface", "fault lines start to appear", or "signs of weakness emerge", depending on the specific context.

Is "cracks begin to form" a metaphor?

Yes, "cracks begin to form" is often used as a metaphor to describe the initial signs of a breakdown or weakening in a system, organization, or relationship, rather than a literal physical fracture.

Which is correct, "cracks begin to form" or "cracks are beginning to form"?

Both "cracks begin to form" and "cracks are beginning to form" are grammatically correct. The former is a simple present tense construction, while the latter uses the present progressive tense, emphasizing the ongoing nature of the process.