dire consequences

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "dire consequences" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to refer to a very serious or negative result or outcome. For example: “If we do not take proactive measures to reduce our environmental impact, we will face dire consequences.”.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Transgression can have dire consequences.

The Economist

"It comes with dire consequences.

The New York Times

Economists may predict dire consequences.

The Guardian

Brookhaven also faced dire consequences.

The New York Times

But the impasse could have dire consequences.

The New York Times

This will have dire consequences for universities.

The Guardian

But knee-jerk nationalism could have dire consequences.

The Economist

This unhappiness can have dire consequences for the civilian population.

Independent

Such dire consequences are rare, but not unheard of.

The New York Times

There will be dire consequences if this limit isn't raised.

The New York Times

Opening a backdoor can have very dire consequences".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming to create a strong sense of urgency or alarm in your writing, "dire consequences" can effectively convey the critical nature of a situation and compel readers to consider the implications of inaction.

Common error

Avoid using "dire consequences" when the situation is only mildly negative. Overstating the severity can weaken your argument and make your writing seem hyperbolic. Choose a more appropriate phrase like "negative effects" or "unfavorable results" for less serious situations.

Linguistic Context

"Dire consequences" functions as a noun phrase typically used as the object of a verb (e.g., face, lead to, have) or as a complement to a preposition. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is correct and usable in written English, confirming its established grammatical function. Ludwig's examples show it describing the grave outcomes of specific actions or situations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "dire consequences" is a powerful expression used to highlight extremely negative outcomes. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability, noting its effectiveness in warning against specific actions and predicting future events. With a very common frequency, it appears most often in News & Media and Scientific contexts. When using "dire consequences", ensure the severity of the phrase aligns with the gravity of the situation to avoid exaggeration. Alternative phrases like "serious repercussions" or "grave outcomes" may be more appropriate in less critical scenarios. Its effectiveness lies in conveying urgency and compelling consideration of potential negative impacts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

catastrophic results

Suggests an extremely destructive or disastrous outcome.

serious repercussions

Emphasizes the far-reaching impact of negative results.

grave outcomes

Focuses on the solemn and weighty nature of the results.

severe ramifications

Highlights the complex and branching nature of the negative results.

negative repercussions

Less intense than "dire", focusing on negative effects.

unfavorable results

A more neutral term for undesired outcomes.

detrimental effects

Highlights the harmful or injurious nature of the consequences.

adverse effects

Focuses on the harmful impact or influence.

damaging outcomes

Stresses the harm caused by the results.

harsh realities

Shift from results to the challenging circumstances that follow.

FAQs

How to use "dire consequences" in a sentence?

You can use "dire consequences" to describe the extremely negative results of a situation. For example, "Ignoring safety regulations can lead to "dire consequences"."

What can I say instead of "dire consequences"?

You can use alternatives like "serious repercussions", "grave outcomes", or "severe ramifications" depending on the context.

What is the difference between "dire consequences" and "negative effects"?

"Dire consequences" implies a much greater severity and potential for disaster than "negative effects". Use "dire consequences" when the situation is extremely serious, and "negative effects" for milder situations.

Is it appropriate to use "dire consequences" in formal writing?

Yes, "dire consequences" is appropriate in formal writing when you need to convey a strong warning about potential negative outcomes. However, ensure the severity aligns with the gravity of the situation.