has a cloud of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "has a cloud of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or feeling that is overshadowed by uncertainty, negativity, or confusion. Example: "The project has a cloud of doubt hanging over it due to the recent budget cuts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Amazon already has a cloud of sorts.

The Economist

The British Firth has a cloud of dark hair, a strong voice, and a baleful stare.

The New Yorker

Bokova, slim, precise, with sharp blue-green eyes and a string of pearls, is chaperoned briskly through these spaces by an energetic aide, Snezhana, who has a cloud of bright red hair.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

But never before had I experienced one that seemed to have a cloud of divine inspiration hovering over it.

The New York Times

The truth is that all children — indeed, all people — have a cloud of microscopic particles around them.

The Washington Post

But I don't think it is acceptable to have a cloud of secrecy hanging over the UK government's negotiating position".

The Guardian

Along the way, Rodriguez also passed a number of players who, like him, have a cloud of suspicion hanging over their careers because of their links to performance-enhancing drugs.

The New York Times - Sports

There was a dedicated networking area, but you couldn't talk to anyone without having a cloud of cigarette smoke blown on your face.

TechCrunch

I have a cloud of sadness within me as I speak.

Huffington Post

I have a cloud of words that Jonathan Karl and ABC News can suck on!

Huffington Post

Let's just have a cloud of suspicion until the election is done and dusted!

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "has a cloud of" to describe situations where uncertainty or negativity is present but not necessarily overwhelming. It suggests a temporary or partial obscuring effect.

Common error

Avoid using "has a cloud of" when the situation is already explicitly negative or disastrous. The phrase works best when there's a subtle or potential negative influence, not an outright catastrophe.

Linguistic Context

"Has a cloud of" functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a noun or verb by adding a descriptive element. It indicates that something is being affected or influenced by a sense of uncertainty, negativity, or potential trouble. Ludwig AI confirms this, showcasing that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "has a cloud of" is a grammatically sound and usable prepositional phrase that suggests a sense of unease or uncertainty. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is used to describe situations overshadowed by negativity or confusion. While not exceedingly common, the phrase is appropriate for formal writing, particularly in news and media contexts, maintaining a neutral register. It is important to use it judiciously, avoiding overstatement and ensuring the context aligns with the intended meaning of a subtle or potential negative influence. The phrase appears most frequently in "News & Media", followed by "Science" and "Formal & Business" contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is under a shadow of

Focuses more on the state of being affected by something negative.

is shrouded in

Suggests a sense of mystery or concealment surrounding something.

is tainted by

Implies a negative impact or corruption.

is marred by

Highlights damage or imperfection.

is overshadowed by

Emphasizes the dominance of something else.

is plagued by

Indicates persistent trouble or suffering.

is burdened by

Suggests a heavy weight or responsibility.

is tinged with

Implies a slight trace of something negative.

is afflicted by

Focuses on suffering or distress.

is beset by

Indicates being constantly harassed or troubled.

FAQs

How can I use "has a cloud of" in a sentence?

You can use "has a cloud of" to describe a situation or feeling that is overshadowed by uncertainty, negativity, or confusion. For instance, "The project "has a cloud of" doubt hanging over it due to the recent budget cuts".

What are some alternatives to "has a cloud of"?

Alternatives include "is under a shadow of", "is shrouded in", or "is tainted by", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "has a cloud of" in formal writing?

Yes, "has a cloud of" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly in news and media contexts. However, ensure the tone and context align with the overall formality of your piece.

What's the difference between "has a cloud of" and "is overshadowed by"?

"Has a cloud of" suggests a more subtle and potentially temporary influence, while "is overshadowed by" implies a more dominant and significant effect.