Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
hierarchy of severity
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "hierarchy of severity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the ranking or categorization of issues, problems, or conditions based on their seriousness or impact. Example: "In our analysis, we established a hierarchy of severity to prioritize the most critical issues that need immediate attention."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Encyclopedias
Alternative expressions(4)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
4 human-written examples
For simplicity, the clinical manifestations of pneumococcal disease are modeled as mutually exclusive, with risk of occurrence following a hierarchy of severity from most severe to least severe: meningitis, bacteremia, pneumonia, AOM.
Science
We have addressed this by creating a hierarchy of severity.
Science
We ascertained the principal mental health diagnosis for each MHC using a previously published method [ 11, 22], which assigned patients to their most significant mental health diagnosis on an hierarchy of severity (see Additional File 1, Table S1).
Science
An alternative approach to conveying the impact of COPD, as reflected in CAT scores, is to present a usable number of selected SGRQ items in an ascending hierarchy of severity or ladder.
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
55 human-written examples
The hierarchy of item severities is particularly important given that the planned items severity in the test content specifications can be compared with the order estimated from the data [ 18].
The legal code clearly distinguished different levels of severity in meted punishments when different members of the social and political hierarchy committed the same crime.
Wiki
The transgressions have different levels of severity.
News & Media
It's just a question of severity".
News & Media
Another index of severity is treatment history.
Science
Low item separation (less than 3) implies that the person's sample is not large enough to confirm the items hierarchy of the instrument (and that the test has no item with high, medium or low severity) [ 18].
The dog knew no hierarchy of affection.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Consider using specific examples to illustrate the different levels within the "hierarchy of severity" to improve understanding.
Common error
Avoid assuming that your audience will automatically understand and agree with your assessment of severity. Clearly define what constitutes 'severe' in your specific context to prevent misinterpretations.
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "hierarchy of severity" functions as a noun phrase. It identifies and describes a system or structure where items are ranked according to their degree of seriousness or impact. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is usable in written English, particularly when categorizing issues based on their seriousness.
Frequent in
Science
75%
News & Media
25%
Formal & Business
0%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
0%
Wiki
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "hierarchy of severity" is a grammatically correct and usable term, according to Ludwig AI, employed to describe a ranked order based on the degree of seriousness or impact. While relatively rare, it's found mainly in scientific and news contexts. When using the phrase, ensure clarity by defining the criteria used to determine severity. Consider alternatives like "severity ranking" or "levels of severity" for slight variations in meaning. Avoid assuming universal agreement on what constitutes 'severe' in your specific context.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
severity ranking
Focuses on the act of ranking based on severity, rather than the ordered arrangement itself.
levels of severity
Emphasizes distinct levels within the range of severity, rather than a continuous hierarchy.
severity scale
Implies a defined scale or measure for assessing severity, instead of a hierarchical arrangement.
gradation of severity
Highlights a gradual change in severity, instead of distinct levels.
spectrum of severity
Presents severity as a continuous range of possibilities.
order of severity
Highlights the sequence based on severity, focusing on the ordered arrangement.
relative severity
Underscores a comparison of severity levels between different entities or instances.
prioritization by severity
Focuses on prioritizing items according to their severity.
severity classification
Implies a system of categorizing items based on severity levels.
severity index
Denotes a numerical or quantitative measure of severity.
FAQs
How can I use "hierarchy of severity" in a sentence?
You can use "hierarchy of severity" to describe an ordered ranking of items based on their seriousness or impact. For example: "The clinical manifestations of pneumococcal disease follow a "hierarchy of severity"."
What are some alternatives to "hierarchy of severity"?
Alternatives include "severity ranking", "levels of severity", or "severity scale", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.
Is it appropriate to use "hierarchy of severity" in formal writing?
Yes, "hierarchy of severity" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly in scientific, medical, or business contexts where the ranking of risks or impacts is necessary. Ensure that the context clearly defines the criteria used for assessing severity.
What's the difference between "hierarchy of severity" and "severity index"?
"Hierarchy of severity" refers to an ordered ranking based on the degree of seriousness, while a "severity index" is a specific quantitative measure used to assess severity. The former is a general concept, the latter is a specific metric.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested