emerging nightmare

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "emerging nightmare" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or issue that is gradually becoming more problematic or alarming. Example: "The increasing frequency of natural disasters due to climate change is an emerging nightmare for many coastal communities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

They say the current shortage of affordable housing is a "national scandal" and an "emerging nightmare".

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

It has left Kashmir trapped in a nightmare from which it can't seem to emerge, a nightmare that has claimed more than 60,000 lives.

The Guardian

But the park is emerging from its nightmare.

The New York Times

In an emerging public relations nightmare for Washington University officials, the sit-in against Peabody Energy ties entered a historic third week, as students continued to press demands after a faltering statement released yesterday by Chancellor Mark Wrighton.

Huffington Post

For one shot, she talked off-camera in the trembling voice of Anne emerging from a harrowing nightmare and, between takes, she sucked on a strawberry sherbet.

The New York Times - Arts

Now that partnership has crumbled to dust, and so too have Yemen's immediate hopes of emerging from this intractable nightmare.

BBC

She emerged from the nightmare stronger, more confident and with a deeper sense of artistic purpose.

The Washington Post

Jones is a woman who, by all accounts, emerged from a nightmare past to embrace a productive life of the mind.

The New Yorker

When China launched its reforms at the end of 1978, it had only just emerged from the nightmare of the Cultural Revolution and, before that, the economic mass suicide of the Great Leap Forward.

The Economist

As relations between the west and Russia return to the deep freeze, the one good thing that could emerge from the nightmare engulfing Syria would be strengthening of UN authority through reform of the security council.

The Guardian - Opinion

At the same time, they persisted in the belief that their efforts could help create a foundation of democratic institutions to build upon, when or if Iraq ever emerges from the nightmare of this war.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "emerging nightmare" to describe situations that are not yet fully realized but are showing signs of becoming significantly problematic. It is best suited for contexts where there is a sense of foreboding or impending doom.

Common error

Avoid using "emerging nightmare" in everyday conversations or trivial situations. The phrase carries a strong connotation of seriousness and potential disaster, making it unsuitable for light-hearted or inconsequential topics.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "emerging nightmare" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "emerging" modifies the noun "nightmare". It describes a situation or issue that is gradually becoming more problematic or alarming. This phrase is used to emphasize the developing and increasingly threatening nature of a negative situation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Academia

8%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

2%

Science

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "emerging nightmare" effectively communicates a sense of a developing and alarming situation. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability in written English. It is most commonly found in news and media contexts, conveying a sense of urgency and concern. While grammatically correct, it's best to avoid overuse in casual conversations, as it carries a strong connotation of potential disaster. Alternatives like "developing crisis" or "growing concern" may be more appropriate in less serious contexts. Remember to use this phrase judiciously to maintain its impact and relevance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Developing crisis

Focuses on the unfolding nature of a critical situation.

Growing concern

Emphasizes the increasing worry about a particular issue.

Escalating problem

Highlights the worsening condition of an existing issue.

Impending disaster

Suggests a future calamity that is about to happen.

Looming threat

Implies a danger that is approaching and may cause harm.

Burgeoning catastrophe

Indicates a catastrophe that is rapidly growing or expanding.

Evolving challenge

Highlights the changing and complex nature of a difficult situation.

Mounting difficulty

Stresses the increasing burden or struggle associated with a situation.

Unfolding tragedy

Focuses on the gradual revelation of a sad or unfortunate event.

Progressing adversity

Emphasizes the ongoing hardship and unfavorable conditions.

FAQs

How can I use "emerging nightmare" in a sentence?

You can use "emerging nightmare" to describe a situation that is gradually becoming more problematic or alarming. For example: "The increasing frequency of natural disasters due to climate change is an "emerging nightmare" for many coastal communities."

What are some alternatives to "emerging nightmare"?

You can use alternatives like "developing crisis", "growing concern", or "escalating problem" depending on the context.

Is "emerging nightmare" a formal or informal phrase?

"Emerging nightmare" leans towards a more formal register due to its serious and somewhat dramatic tone. It is often found in news reports and analytical pieces.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use "emerging nightmare"?

It is appropriate to use "emerging nightmare" in contexts where you want to convey a sense of growing dread or concern about a situation that is likely to worsen significantly. This is often seen in discussions about social issues, environmental problems, or economic challenges.