dark clouds gathering

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "dark clouds gathering" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used metaphorically to describe an impending sense of trouble or difficulty, often in a figurative sense related to situations or emotions. Example: "As the negotiations continued to falter, dark clouds gathering over the summit signaled a looming crisis."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

The approach of World War I is "the dark clouds gathering on the other side of the Atlantic".

The New York Times - Books

After an hour of dark clouds gathering and threatening rain, the wind kicked up in Gorkha and sheets of rain began to pour down.

The Guardian

Then she warns of "dark clouds gathering", which all seems a bit obvious since we know the series is called 1864, which is when the second Schleswig war actually takes place.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

As the date for the Labour conference grows closer, like dark clouds gathering on the horizon, my thoughts are focused on the social and economic injustices from our nation's history that helped form this party's progressive political ideology.

The Guardian - Opinion

In what might have been a lone break in the dark clouds gathering around the rebels, an opposition Web site reported that a 1970s-era 1970s-era MIG-23 MIG-23d a helicopter fightere rebel forces hit at least one government warshiplaneit bombanded ajdabiya from thelicopteruters and other news agencies reported.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Black clouds gathering over head at the Oval.

The Guardian - Sport

I look up to see large, black clouds gathering overhead.

The Guardian

Dark clouds gathered.

The New York Times

Dark clouds gather on sea and land.

The New Yorker

There is a dark cloud gathering in Liberal Democracies, and we cannot turn a blind eye to it.

The Guardian - Opinion

So look at the brighter side of life — at the dark rain clouds gathering overhead, feel the moisture-laden breeze on your body, watch pretty girls swinging on their jhoolas, see peacocks spreading out their feathers to dance and hear their exultant cries: peeooh, peeooh".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "dark clouds gathering" to foreshadow negative events or challenges, particularly in narrative or analytical writing. It sets a tone of unease and anticipation.

Common error

Avoid using "dark clouds gathering" in predictable situations (e.g., financial crises). Opt for more original metaphors to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dark clouds gathering" functions as a metaphor, often serving as a noun phrase. It alludes to approaching challenges or misfortunes, evoking a sense of unease. Ludwig AI affirms its usability in written English, as demonstrated in the examples provided.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"Dark clouds gathering" is a phrase used to signal impending trouble or negative events. Ludwig AI confirms that it is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in English. Predominantly found in News & Media, it functions metaphorically to create a sense of foreboding. While effective, it risks becoming clichéd if overused. Alternatives like "gathering storm" or "trouble brewing" can offer variety. Remember to use this phrase judiciously to maintain reader engagement and avoid predictability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gathering storm

Similar meaning, but without direct clouds reference.

storm clouds forming

Uses "storm" for a more intense, chaotic issue.

ominous signs appearing

Focuses on the appearance of negative indicators, rather than the accumulation.

trouble brewing

Emphasizes the active development of problems.

impending doom

Highlights the feeling of unavoidable disaster.

darkness approaching

Emphasizes a gradual shift toward negativity.

difficulties arising

A more general term for emerging challenges.

unfavorable conditions developing

Focuses on the creation of disadvantageous circumstances.

ill omens emerging

Emphasizes negative premonitions or warnings.

a sense of foreboding

Focuses on an intuitive feeling that something bad is going to happen.

FAQs

How can I use "dark clouds gathering" in a sentence?

You can use "dark clouds gathering" to describe impending negative events or feelings. For example: "As the negotiations continued to falter, "dark clouds gathering" over the summit signaled a looming crisis."

What can I say instead of "dark clouds gathering"?

You can use alternatives like "gathering storm", "trouble brewing", or "ominous signs appearing" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "dark clouds gathering"?

It is appropriate when you want to create a sense of impending doom or trouble. It's often used metaphorically to describe situations, emotions, or events that are deteriorating or about to worsen.

Is "dark clouds gathering" a cliché?

While widely recognized, "dark clouds gathering" can become cliché if overused. Strive for originality by using the phrase sparingly and considering more inventive metaphors.