looming consequence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "looming consequence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an impending or imminent result or outcome that is likely to occur, often with a negative connotation. Example: "The team was aware of the looming consequence of their failure to meet the deadline, which could jeopardize the entire project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

One looming consequence of climate change: Small island nations will cease to exist.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Mr. Sarkozy expressed confidence that the European Central Bank, while independent, would act in the face of possible deflation, one of the looming consequences of the crisis.

The New York Times

Much remains unknown as the country wades toward unprecedented territory, but the uncertainty and potentially looming consequences are not yet having a direct or major effect on most people's lives, Twyman explained.

Huffington Post

In its broadest sense, it's a campaign that has evolved to raise awareness about resource use, resource constraints and the looming consequences of doing precisely nothing to address climate change.

Huffington Post

The 55-page report, "State of Illinois FY2017 Budget Roadmap," warns of the looming consequences of inaction -- a $25.9 billion unpaid bill backlog by the end of fiscal year 2019 -- unless "painful but necessary spending limits and revenue enhancements" are enacted.

Huffington Post

Failure to support Pakistan now will only extend the war and the looming global consequences.

The Guardian - Opinion

So the struggle between Hollande's socialists and Marine Le Pen's far-right National Front to control the meaning of the war that the socialist Valls has announced -- with terrible consequences looming if Le Pen grabs the tiller.

Huffington Post

There are real consequences to social media hosting radically indecent speech, and those consequences are looming.

TechCrunch

But another growing crisis is looming, with potentially devastating consequences for the world's food supply.

The Guardian

Now, the Republican trying to take his Senate seat, Representative Denny Rehberg — who opposed the deal — is traversing the state warning of "catastrophic consequences" from looming military cuts — and from Mr. Tester's vote.

The New York Times

But we can still prevent this looming crisis and its disastrous consequences.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "looming consequence" to describe negative outcomes that are not only expected but also pose a significant threat. This phrase works best when the consequence is reasonably predictable and avoidable, at least in theory.

Common error

Avoid using "looming consequence" when a more neutral phrase like "potential outcome" or "possible result" would be more appropriate. The word "looming" implies a sense of foreboding, so reserve it for situations where the consequence is genuinely concerning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "looming consequence" functions as a noun phrase where "looming" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "consequence". As suggested by Ludwig AI, it is used to describe a result or outcome that is impending and has a negative connotation.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "looming consequence" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that describes a negative outcome that is expected and imminent. According to Ludwig AI, it can be used to describe an impending or imminent result or outcome that is likely to occur, often with a negative connotation. While the frequency of this phrase is rare, its use is appropriate in news, scientific and formal business contexts to highlight potentially serious issues. When using this phrase, it’s crucial to reserve it for situations with genuinely concerning consequences and avoid overuse in neutral contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

impending consequence

Replaces "looming" with a synonym, maintaining the sense of something about to occur.

approaching consequence

Similar to "impending consequence", suggesting that the consequence is drawing nearer.

forthcoming consequence

Indicates a consequence that is about to happen or be revealed.

imminent consequence

Emphasizes the near certainty and immediacy of the consequence.

threatened consequence

Shifts focus to the potential for a negative outcome.

gathering storm

Uses a metaphor to describe a negative consequence that is developing.

oncoming result

A more neutral alternative that emphasizes the temporal aspect of the consequence.

pending outcome

Highlights the state of being undecided before the consequence is realized.

ensuing effect

Focuses on the consequence as something that naturally follows.

brewing crisis

Similar to "gathering storm" but implies a greater sense of danger and urgency.

FAQs

How can I use "looming consequence" in a sentence?

You can use "looming consequence" to describe an impending negative outcome, such as, "The "looming consequences" of climate change are a major concern."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "looming consequence"?

Some alternatives to "looming consequence" include "impending consequence", "approaching consequence", or "imminent consequence", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "looming consequence" in formal writing?

Yes, "looming consequence" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly when discussing serious or threatening situations. However, ensure that the tone aligns with the overall message and context.

What is the difference between "looming consequence" and "potential consequence"?

"Looming consequence" suggests a higher degree of certainty and immediacy than "potential consequence". A "potential consequence" is merely possible, while a "looming consequence" is likely and imminent.