latent tensions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "latent tensions" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe underlying conflicts or stressors that are not immediately visible but may influence a situation or relationship. Example: "The negotiations were complicated by the latent tensions between the two parties, which had been building for years."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

After the break latent tensions from the first leg resurfaced.

The Guardian - Sport

We remain the heirs not just of his remarkable vision, but of those latent tensions too.

The New York Times

In ''Real World''-style confessional interviews, they dished dirt on one another, inflaming latent tensions.

The New York Times

We can understand their internal principles; disruptions grow out of latent tensions.

The New York Times - Books

What if a new arrival, a manipulative Danish ballroom instructor, began deliberately to stir up latent tensions?

The New York Times - Books

Do the Right Thing takes the latent tensions of a neighbourhood and sees them squeezed to the surface by the weather.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

His first, to anthropology-student-turned-model-turned-anxious-housewife Betty is one of male power and the latent tension of late 1950s/early 1960s suburbia.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Yet everyone involved knew that Erasmus was not the conventional Louvain theologian, and eventually this latent tension led to a breakdown of the original feeling of collegiality.

SEP

While a latent tension often exists between these competing allegiances, two recent developments relating to Church policy have set medical ethics and Catholic doctrine on an unfortunate collision course.

Huffington Post

For instance, there is a latent tension between democratic authority and international law: In March 2013, Kenya held relatively peaceful democratic elections, an important feat in the wake of the 2007-2008 political violence following the election of former President Mwai Kibaki.

Huffington Post

But within its modest scope the film, directed by Pablo Fendrik, uncovers latent social tensions and psychological disturbances.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "latent tensions", ensure the context clearly implies the potential for these tensions to become overt or active. Providing background information about the situation helps illustrate the nature of these underlying issues.

Common error

Avoid using "latent tensions" to describe conflicts that have already manifested openly. The term specifically refers to underlying issues that are not yet fully expressed or addressed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "latent tensions" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes underlying or hidden conflicts or stressors that are not immediately apparent. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and well-suited for describing complex situations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "latent tensions" effectively captures the essence of underlying or hidden conflicts. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used across various domains, including news, science, and encyclopedias. It serves to highlight potential risks and influences decision-making by bringing awareness to these underlying issues. When employing this phrase, ensure the context underscores the potential for these tensions to surface. Consider alternatives like ""underlying strains"" or "dormant conflicts" for subtle variations in meaning. By grasping the nuances of "latent tensions", you enhance your ability to articulate complex dynamics with precision and clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

underlying strains

Focuses more on the stress or pressure that exists beneath the surface, similar to "latent tensions".

dormant conflicts

Emphasizes the inactivity of the conflict, but suggests it could become active, like "latent tensions".

hidden discord

Highlights the disagreement or lack of harmony that is not openly expressed, similarly to "latent tensions".

smoldering resentments

Indicates a slow-burning anger or bitterness that is not openly displayed, close to "latent tensions".

suppressed antagonism

Stresses the act of holding back hostile feelings or opposition, comparable to "latent tensions".

unacknowledged friction

Focuses on the lack of recognition of the conflict or disagreement that exists, similar to "latent tensions".

unresolved issues

Highlights the matters that have not been settled or dealt with, which may cause "latent tensions".

potential for conflict

Emphasizes the possibility of conflict arising from the current situation, similar to the implications of "latent tensions".

brewing trouble

Suggests that problems are developing or intensifying, similar to the idea of "latent tensions" escalating.

undercurrent of unease

Implies a subtle feeling of anxiety or discomfort that is present but not openly expressed, like "latent tensions".

FAQs

How can I use "latent tensions" in a sentence?

Use "latent tensions" to describe underlying conflicts or stressors that are not immediately visible but could potentially surface and cause problems. For example: "The project's success was threatened by the "underlying strains" between team members."

What are some alternatives to using "latent tensions"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like ""underlying strains"", "dormant conflicts", or "hidden discord" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it correct to say "patent tensions" instead of "latent tensions"?

No, "patent tensions" is incorrect in this context. "Latent" refers to something hidden or not yet developed, while "patent" means obvious or evident. Therefore, "obvious tensions" would be the correct term if the tensions are readily apparent.

What's the difference between "latent tensions" and "potential tensions"?

"Latent tensions" implies that the tensions already exist in a hidden or undeveloped form, whereas "potential tensions" suggests that the tensions could develop in the future based on certain conditions or events. "Latent tensions" are present but not active, while "potential tensions" are not yet present but could emerge.