difficulties looming

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "difficulties looming" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe challenges or problems that are anticipated to arise in the near future. Example: "As the deadline approaches, we can see difficulties looming on the horizon that we need to address."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Aides say Mr. Trump was determined to display some form of strength, but also was aware of the difficulties looming with Russia once the strikes became known.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Greater difficulties loom.

The New York Times - Arts

Graver difficulties loomed in southern Babylonia, which was attacked by Elam in 664.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It was clear, he suggested, that trouble, or at least difficulty, loomed, as each side would be forced to put in writing its perception of what had been agreed on.

The New Yorker

Difficulties loom in the future, which is why it is so important that they are establishing their identity now, both at the player and team level.

The New York Times

I wrote a long way into the book very aware that a difficulty was looming, as it does with any linear narrative of a life that simply takes one thing after another.

The New Yorker

Her granddaughter mentioned, though Esseny did not, that in 2001 Esseny cared for an adult daughter with tuberculosis, possibly an early symptom of AIDS, suggesting that financial and emotional difficulties may loom in the future.

Health and Place

Ryanair first signaled looming difficulties last January when it issued a profit warning.

The New York Times

(Would Rimbaud have finessed his looming difficulties by walking away from poetry if he had been as thoroughly rewarded with money, acclaim, and unlimited lovers? No).

The New Yorker

This kind of project brings together natural and social scientists in productive partnership to develop the policy concepts that, when implemented, can give adults and children alike a chance to cope with the looming difficulties.

Princeton University

The judges commended her "varied and realistic portrayal of business on the continent".In this section Looming difficulties Bush whacked Gimme smelter Third time lucky Down to earth with a bump Green shoots The third screen Book value Award Reprints.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "difficulties looming" to create a sense of foreboding or anticipation when discussing potential future problems in reports, articles, or presentations. This can help emphasize the need for proactive planning and mitigation strategies.

Common error

Avoid using "difficulties looming" in everyday conversation or informal writing, as it can sound overly dramatic or formal. Opt for simpler phrases like "problems ahead" or "challenges coming up" in casual settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "difficulties looming" functions as a noun phrase followed by a present participle phrase, acting as a descriptive element. It serves to highlight the impending nature of the difficulties, indicating they are not just present but also growing or approaching. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

32%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "difficulties looming" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that describes challenges or problems anticipated in the near future. While not as common as other similar phrases, it's appropriate for formal and neutral contexts, like news reports, scientific papers, and business communications. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase effectively creates a sense of anticipation and encourages proactive planning. Alternative phrases such as "troubles on the horizon" or "challenges approaching" may be suitable for more casual settings. When writing, avoid overuse in informal contexts to maintain an appropriate tone and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Troubles are on the horizon

Replaces "difficulties" with "troubles" and uses the "on the horizon" idiom for impending events.

Challenges are approaching

Substitutes "difficulties" with "challenges" and "looming" with "approaching", maintaining a similar sense of anticipation.

Problems are emerging

Emphasizes the emergence of problems rather than their looming presence.

Difficult times are ahead

Focuses on a period of difficulty rather than specific looming issues.

Storm clouds are gathering

Uses a metaphorical expression for impending trouble or difficulties.

A crisis is brewing

Indicates that a crisis is developing or about to occur.

Threats are materializing

Highlights the realization of potential threats.

Impediments are surfacing

Focuses on obstacles coming to light.

Obstacles are in sight

Indicates that obstacles are becoming visible or apparent.

Rough waters lie ahead

Uses a maritime metaphor to suggest impending difficulties or challenges.

FAQs

How can I use "difficulties looming" in a sentence?

You can use "difficulties looming" to indicate that problems or challenges are expected to arise in the near future. For example: "With the new regulations taking effect, difficulties are looming for small businesses."

What's a less formal alternative to "difficulties looming"?

Less formal alternatives include phrases like "problems ahead", "trouble coming", or "challenges approaching". These options are suitable for more casual contexts.

Is "difficulties looming" appropriate for academic writing?

Yes, "difficulties looming" is suitable for academic writing, especially when discussing potential future challenges or problems in research or policy (/s/research).

What is the difference between "difficulties looming" and "challenges ahead"?

"Difficulties looming" suggests a more immediate and potentially threatening situation, whereas "challenges ahead" has a broader scope and can refer to longer-term obstacles or opportunities for growth.