future harm

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "future harm" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing potential negative consequences or risks that may occur later on. Example: "The researchers are concerned about the possibility of future harm to the environment if the project is approved."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"The future harm is now".

The New York Times

He volunteered to gather proof if it would help to protect his family from future harm.

The New York Times

It's one that says punishment is an effective mechanism for avoiding future harm.

Yale University

Thus, the past could not testify as to the future harm of the merger," Mr. Balto said.

The New York Times - Tech

Nintendo must show "by a preponderance of the evidence that some meaningful likelihood of future harm exists". Id. (emphasis supplied).

Harvard University

Because the Game Genie is used for a noncommercial purpose, the likelihood of future harm may not be presumed.

Harvard University

To carry on, businesses will need to work with their partners both to assess risks and to prevent future harm.

The Guardian

We can reasonably assume that if someone is removed from practice, potential future harm to service users is minimised.

The Guardian

Tests also showed a preoccupation with future harm at the expense of what might be needed in the present moment.

The Guardian

Targeting reduction of future harm in adolescents admitted to hospital with adversity-related injuries is of great public health interest in the UK.

The Lancet

Some of these restrictions will not only prohibit future harm but also, over time, should help restore the prospect of competition that was destroyed by Microsoft's violations.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing preventive measures, pair "future harm" with actionable steps. For example, "To mitigate future harm, implement stricter safety protocols."

Common error

Avoid using adjectives that unnecessarily amplify "future harm", such as "potential future harm" or "possible future harm", as it can sound repetitive. Simply use "future harm" to effectively convey the risk of harm occurring in the future.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "future harm" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or the focus of a prepositional phrase. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. Its function is to describe potential negative outcomes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "future harm" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that effectively conveys the potential for negative consequences. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is valid and usable in English. Its prominence across diverse contexts like News & Media, Science, and Academia underscores its versatility and importance in discussions concerning risk assessment and prevention. When using "future harm", avoid redundancy by omitting unnecessary adjectives. Consider alternatives such as "potential damage" or "long-term consequences" to enhance clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

potential damage

Focuses on the tangible or intangible losses that could occur.

possible repercussions

Highlights the consequences that may arise from a particular action or event.

long-term consequences

Emphasizes the extended duration of the negative effects.

future detriment

Implies a disadvantage or loss that will occur down the line.

subsequent injury

Specifically refers to physical or emotional harm that follows an initial event.

downstream effects

Suggests a ripple effect where initial actions cause later problems.

eventual repercussions

Similar to "possible repercussions" but emphasizes the certainty of occurrence given enough time.

risk of future adversity

Focuses on the probability of encountering unfavorable conditions or circumstances.

likelihood of later jeopardy

Highlights the potential for future danger or peril.

prospect of subsequent suffering

Emphasizes the potential for pain or distress in the future.

FAQs

How can I use "future harm" in a sentence?

You can use "future harm" to discuss potential negative consequences that may occur later on. For example, "The study aimed to assess the risk of future harm to the environment."

What are some alternatives to "future harm"?

You can use alternatives like "potential damage", "long-term consequences", or "possible repercussions" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "potential future harm"?

Yes, saying "potential future harm" can be redundant. "Future harm" already implies a potential risk, so adding "potential" is often unnecessary.

When is it appropriate to use "future harm" in formal writing?

"Future harm" is appropriate in formal writing when discussing risks, consequences, or preventive measures. For instance, it is suitable for legal documents, scientific reports, or policy analyses.