least auspicious

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "least auspicious" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or event that is considered to be the least favorable or promising. Example: "The weather on the day of the outdoor wedding was the least auspicious, with heavy rain and strong winds."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

IT PROBABLY has the least auspicious origins of any carmaker.

The Economist

Still, some scholars consider that approach to the debate the least auspicious way of exploring the mystery of existence.

The New York Times - Tech

He almost condemned Cardiff to the least auspicious of starts, handling the former City striker Rudy Gestede's header in the 18-yard area.

The Guardian - Sport

This is a song originally of relief and of the little man holding his ground, and it has somehow risen from the least auspicious of beginnings to become one of the most important songs ever.

The Guardian - Music

Boateng designs sensational menswear, is friends with everyone from Robert Redford to Sacha Baron Cohen, and has achieved all this from the least auspicious origins, but I wish he'd lighten up.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It was a disappointing ending but one which gives the 28-year-old Glaswegian, the least auspicious of Britain's quartet of world champions, a chance to make a bigger noise on the international stage with the prospect of a unification fight with the WBA champion Brandon Rios.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

It was not, initially at least, an auspicious start for the South Africa leg-spinner Tahir on his return to Trent Bridge, where he will spend the remainder of the summer.

The Guardian - Sport

Click here to view It was a fine film, an auspicious start; not least because it led, three years later, to Heartburn – also directed by Nichols, also starring Streep – and based on Ephron's autobiographical novel about the breakup of her marriage to Bernstein.

The Guardian - Film

During those times, families try to set their children up for a lifetime of success by giving birth to them on an auspicious date, or at least in an auspicious year.

Vice

In one respect at least, the competition is off to an auspicious start.

The Economist

It was an auspicious evening; I drove past at least a dozen celebrations.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "least auspicious" to describe beginnings, circumstances, or events that indicate a poor start or a high likelihood of negative outcomes. It is especially effective in formal writing when conveying a sense of foreboding or lack of promise.

Common error

Avoid using "least auspicious" in casual conversation or informal writing. It is a formal phrase and may sound out of place in relaxed contexts; consider more straightforward alternatives like "worst" or "unluckiest".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "least auspicious" functions as an adjectival modifier, specifically as a superlative adjective phrase. It is used to describe a noun, indicating that something has the poorest or most unfavorable prospects. Ludwig AI confirms that the expression is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

87%

Science

13%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "least auspicious" serves as a formal and critical descriptor, denoting the most unfavorable or unpromising among several possibilities. Ludwig AI confirms it's correct, and its frequent appearance in news media signifies its utility in objective and analytical reporting. While grammatically sound, consider the context before using it to ensure the level of formality aligns with the intended audience. When a less formal tone is needed, alternatives such as "most unfortunate" or "most unpromising" might be more suitable. The phrase effectively signals potential for negative outcomes, particularly when describing beginnings or circumstances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

most inauspicious

A direct synonym, maintaining the same formal tone and meaning.

most unpropitious

Similar to "inauspicious", stressing an unfavorable indication of success.

most unfavorable

Emphasizes the negative aspect, highlighting the lack of favorability.

most unpromising

Focuses on the lack of potential for success or a positive outcome.

most unfortunate

Highlights the element of bad luck or adverse circumstances.

least fortunate

Emphasizes the lack of good fortune or luck.

most adverse

Highlights the presence of obstacles and negative conditions.

worst possible

Indicates the absolutely least desirable or favorable outcome.

most discouraging

Focuses on the potential to cause a loss of confidence or hope.

most disheartening

Emphasizes the disappointment and loss of enthusiasm.

FAQs

How can I use "least auspicious" in a sentence?

You can use "least auspicious" to describe something that has a poor beginning or shows signs of future failure. For example: "The project got off to the "least auspicious" start when the lead developer quit."

What is a less formal alternative to "least auspicious"?

Some less formal alternatives include "most unfortunate", "most unpromising", or "worst possible". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "least auspicious" the same as "inauspicious"?

"Inauspicious" is a synonym for unfavorable or unlucky. "Least auspicious" implies that it's the most unfavorable among several options or possibilities. They are similar, but "least auspicious" has a comparative aspect.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "least auspicious"?

Use "least auspicious" in formal contexts when you want to describe a situation, beginning, or circumstance that seems particularly unfavorable or to suggest a negative outlook.