domino effect

USAGE SUMMARY

The term "domino effect" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a situation in which one event can trigger a series of similar events in succession. For example: The government's austerity measures had a domino effect, leading to widespread job losses and economic instability.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

P1: The domino effect?

The New Yorker

There's a domino effect.

The New York Times - Sports

A domino effect ensues.

The New York Times

It's a domino effect.

The New Yorker

They're talking Tunisian domino effect.

The New York Times

This triggers a domino effect.

The Guardian

Talk about your Domino effect.

The New Yorker

It was a domino effect.

The New York Times

Everything had a domino effect.

The Guardian - Arts

The "domino effect" was real.

The New York Times - Books

Now let's see a domino effect.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the "domino effect" to illustrate how seemingly small or isolated actions can lead to a significant sequence of events. It's useful for explaining complex systems or predicting potential outcomes.

Common error

While "domino effect" is a vivid metaphor, avoid using it excessively. In some cases, more precise language describing cause and effect may be more effective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "domino effect" functions as a noun phrase that often acts as a subject or object in a sentence. It metaphorically describes a sequence of events where one action directly triggers a series of subsequent actions. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "domino effect" is a common and grammatically sound term used to describe a sequence of events where one action triggers a series of related consequences. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely accepted and employed across various contexts, particularly in news, business, and scientific domains. While synonyms like "chain reaction" or "ripple effect" exist, "domino effect" provides a specific visual metaphor for direct, sequential causation. Remember to use it judiciously to avoid overuse and ensure clarity in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Chain reaction

This alternative emphasizes the sequential and linked nature of the events.

Ripple effect

This alternative suggests a spreading, expanding impact from an initial event.

Knock-on effect

This alternative highlights the consequences that arise as a result of an initial event.

Cascade effect

This alternative emphasizes a series of events, each triggering the next in a downward progression.

Snowball effect

This alternative implies that the effect grows larger and faster over time.

Domino theory

This alternative is more specific, relating to the political theory.

Chain of events

This alternative is a more general term for a sequence of occurrences.

Series of consequences

This alternative emphasizes the results that follow from an action.

Unintended consequences

This alternative focuses on the unexpected outcomes of an action.

The butterfly effect

This alternative highlights how small initial events can have a large impact.

FAQs

What does the phrase "domino effect" mean?

The "domino effect" describes a situation where one event sets off a chain of subsequent events, similar to how falling dominoes knock each other over.

How can I use "domino effect" in a sentence?

You can use "domino effect" to explain how an initial action or decision can trigger a series of related consequences. For example, "The company's restructuring had a "domino effect", leading to layoffs and decreased productivity."

What's the difference between "domino effect" and "ripple effect"?

While both describe chain reactions, "domino effect" suggests a more direct and sequential progression, whereas ""ripple effect"" implies a wider, spreading impact.

Are there any synonyms for "domino effect"?

Yes, you can use phrases like "chain reaction", "knock-on effect", or "cascade effect" as alternatives.