fraught with potential

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'fraught with potential' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation that is full of the possibilities for either success or failure, usually characterized by a high degree of uncertainty. For example, "The first date was fraught with potential, as neither person knew what might come of it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Ousting Mr. Arafat is fraught with potential problems.

The New York Times

Eating is also fraught with potential for superfluous stinginess.

The New York Times

He adds that the path from orchard to eater is fraught with potential stresses.

The New York Times

They also say that the process is fraught with potential for human error and even mischief.

The New York Times

Just choosing the mode of transportation is fraught with potential for disagreement.

The New York Times

But the growing ties between Israel and Mr. Abbas's government are fraught with potential problems.

The New York Times

But it is also fraught with potential difficulties of its own.

The New York Times - Arts

Surgery of any kind, especially neurosurgery, is fraught with potential complications.

The New York Times

After more than three decades of non-communication, U.S.-Iranian diplomacy is fraught with potential misunderstanding.

The New York Times

Estimating sugar consumption is a tricky proposition, fraught with potential for misjudgments.

The New York Times

The agreement is fraught with potential problems that could transform an orderly surrender into a pitched battle.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "fraught with potential" to add nuance when describing situations involving both opportunity and risk, avoiding overly positive or negative connotations.

Common error

Avoid using "fraught with potential" in contexts that are only mildly risky or uncertain; the phrase implies a significant degree of both opportunity and danger.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fraught with potential" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It describes something as being filled with possibilities that are accompanied by potential difficulties or risks. Ludwig AI confirms this usage is correct and widespread.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "fraught with potential" is a versatile phrase used to describe situations that are filled with both promise and peril. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and commonly used, especially in news, science, and formal business contexts. While it conveys a sense of opportunity, it equally emphasizes the presence of potential difficulties or risks. Alternatives like "teeming with possibilities" or "charged with uncertainty" can be used to shift the emphasis, but "fraught with potential" offers a balanced and nuanced perspective. When using this phrase, remember to consider the context and ensure that the situation genuinely involves a significant degree of both opportunity and risk, in order to avoid misrepresenting the scenario.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

charged with uncertainty

Highlights the unpredictable nature and inherent risks of the situation.

heavy with consequence

Emphasizes the weighty and impactful nature of the potential outcomes.

loaded with implications

Emphasizes the significant consequences that the potential holds.

thick with difficulties

Shifts focus to the problems and challenges that accompany the potential.

teeming with possibilities

Focuses on the abundance of opportunities rather than inherent risks.

ripe with possibility

Suggests that the potential is mature and ready to be realized.

replete with opportunities

Similar to teeming, but suggests a sense of completeness and abundance.

full of latent possibilities

Emphasizes the hidden and undeveloped nature of the potential.

pregnant with anticipation

Highlights the excitement and expectation surrounding the potential.

brimming with promise

Focuses on the positive and hopeful aspects of the potential.

FAQs

How can I use "fraught with potential" in a sentence?

Use "fraught with potential" to describe situations filled with both promise and possible problems. For instance, "The new business venture is "fraught with potential", offering high rewards but also significant risks."

What are some alternatives to "fraught with potential"?

Consider alternatives such as "teeming with possibilities", "charged with uncertainty", or "loaded with implications" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always negative to say something is "fraught with potential"?

No, while the phrase suggests inherent risks or difficulties, it also implies the existence of significant opportunities or benefits. The overall connotation depends on the context.

What's the difference between "fraught with potential" and "full of potential"?

"Full of potential" simply indicates the presence of possibilities, while "fraught with potential" suggests that these possibilities are accompanied by considerable challenges or dangers. The former is generally more positive, while the latter is more balanced.