in harm

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in harm" is not correct and does not stand alone in written English.
It is typically part of the expression "in harm's way," which refers to being in a dangerous or risky situation. Example: "The soldiers were deployed to areas where civilians were often in harm's way."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Depression has a firm basis in harm to the brain.

The New York Times

There is an economic case for investment in harm reduction.

The Guardian

Tobacco toxicant-related exposure reduction is an important tool in harm reduction.

Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology

Testing is used in the Netherlands and some Australian states, with seeming value in harm reduction.

The Guardian - Opinion

Some, but not all, medical mistakes can result in harm or injury to the patient".

The New York Times - Health

And even those few would still be net winners, because of the corresponding reductions in harm.

The New York Times

U.S. Navy sonar has been implicated in harm to whales and dolphins, environmental groups contend.

The Washington Post

We make mistakes, and often pay dearly for them in harm to our jobs or reputations.

The Washington Post

The bill would provide drug companies some legal protection if a treatment results in harm.

The Washington Post

There has also been an explosion in harm reduction initiatives at the subnational level.

The Guardian

Cigarette rod length as a design feature may play a specific role in harm perception and tobacco use.

Drug and Alcohol Dependence

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to potential danger or risk, consider using the more idiomatic expression "in harm's way" or alternatives like "in danger" or "at risk" for clarity and grammatical correctness.

Common error

Avoid using "in harm" in isolation. This phrase typically requires further context, such as "in harm's way". Using it alone can sound incomplete or grammatically awkward.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in harm" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase, often acting as an adverbial modifier indicating a state or condition of potential danger or risk. However, it's most frequently encountered as part of the idiomatic expression "in harm's way". Ludwig AI notes that "in harm" alone can sound incomplete.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

35%

Academia

11%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "in harm" appears frequently, it is often part of the idiomatic expression "in harm's way". Ludwig AI analysis indicates that using "in harm" in isolation may sound incomplete or grammatically awkward. More direct and clear alternatives include "in danger" or "at risk". The phrase is most commonly found in news and media, science, and academic contexts. While frequently used, it's crucial to ensure that its use is grammatically sound, often requiring it to be part of "in harm's way" or replaced with a more explicit alternative to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in danger

This alternative is more direct and concise, focusing on the state of being at risk.

at risk

Similar to "in danger", this phrase highlights the potential for negative outcomes.

in jeopardy

Implies a more serious or imminent threat than "in harm".

in peril

Conveys a sense of great danger or risk, often used in more formal contexts.

exposed to danger

This alternative emphasizes the act of being subjected to a potential threat.

vulnerable to harm

Highlights a weakness or susceptibility that increases the likelihood of negative consequences.

susceptible to injury

Focuses specifically on the risk of physical harm or damage.

at risk of damage

Similar to "at risk", but specifies the type of negative outcome as damage.

liable to be hurt

Emphasizes the probability of experiencing harm or injury.

prone to adversity

Indicates a tendency or predisposition towards unfavorable or difficult situations.

FAQs

Is "in harm" grammatically correct?

While frequently used, "in harm" often appears as part of the idiom "in harm's way". Standing alone, it may sound incomplete. Consider using alternatives like "in danger" or "at risk" for greater clarity.

What does "in harm's way" mean?

"In harm's way" means being in a position or situation where one is likely to be hurt or injured. It implies exposure to danger.

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

The most common correct usage is within the phrase "in harm's way", such as "The soldiers were deployed to keep civilians out of harm's way". Alternatively, rephrase using "in danger" or "at risk".

What's the difference between "in harm" and "in danger"?

"In danger" is a complete and grammatically sound phrase indicating a state of risk. "In harm" is usually part of the expression "in harm's way" and sounds incomplete on its own. Therefore, "in danger" is typically the preferred choice for directness and clarity.