might befall

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "might befall" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express the possibility of something happening or occurring, often in a negative or unfortunate context. Example: "We must consider the risks that might befall us if we proceed without a plan."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Indicating what might befall him, he draws his hand across his neck.

The Economist

A reason, of course, is that people cannot anticipate what might befall them.

The New York Times

Do you talk among yourselves about the harm that might befall you?

The New York Times - Magazine

Judaic and Islamic canonical texts refer frequently to slavery and treat it as a natural condition that might befall anyone.

Encyclopedia Britannica

What consequences might befall Cartman if he doesn't read that must-agree-to agreement when he downloads an iTunes update?

The New York Times

The threat that disaster might befall any euro member to drop out may continue to keep economies in line.

The Economist

In "Worst-Case ­Scenario," a man makes a living by describing the disasters that might befall his clients.

The New York Times - Books

"The whole nation hanging on to one athlete — as if some crisis might befall the nation if she didn't win a gold — this is not good sportsmanship".

The New York Times - Sports

Jim is a likeable character, not so much afraid of other people as worried what harm might befall them because of him.

Independent

Still, in that soaring solo phrase Ms. Albanese sounds more worried about not keeping up with Toscanini than about what might befall Alfredo.

The New York Times - Arts

Host countries are naturally concerned that reciprocal violations of privileges and immunities might befall their own embassies in foreign lands were they to allow them in their capital.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "might befall" to add a touch of formality and gravity when discussing potential negative events. It's particularly effective in formal writing and speeches.

Common error

Avoid using "might befall" in casual conversations or informal writing. Its formal tone can sound out of place and overly dramatic in everyday contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "might befall" functions as a modal verb phrase, expressing the possibility or likelihood of something happening, often with negative connotations. According to Ludwig, it suggests a potential misfortune or adverse event.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Encyclopedias

9%

Science

8%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "might befall" is a modal verb phrase that conveys the potential for something, generally negative, to occur. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and indicates frequent use in formal contexts such as news, encyclopedias, and scientific writing. While grammatically sound, it's advisable to use "might befall" judiciously, favoring simpler alternatives like "could happen" in informal settings. Remember to choose this phrase when you want to suggest a level of formality and potentially signal caution about impending misfortunes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

could befall

Drops the subject 'might', thus slightly intensifying the possibility implied.

might happen to

Almost identical in meaning, but replaces 'befall' with the more common 'happen', making it slightly less formal.

could happen to

Focuses on the possibility of an event occurring to someone or something. Slightly more direct and less formal.

may occur to

Similar to "could happen to" but retains a slightly more formal tone, emphasizing possibility.

might transpire

Replaces 'befall' with 'transpire', indicating the unfolding or occurrence of events, retaining a formal tone.

may come to pass

A more formal and somewhat archaic alternative, emphasizing the eventual occurrence of an event.

dangers emerging

Similar to 'risks arising' but specifically highlights the emergence of dangers or threats.

risks arising

Emphasizes the potential for negative consequences or dangers to emerge. This option focuses on risks specifically.

threats materializing

Focuses on the realization of potential threats, making it more suitable when the context involves imminent danger.

potential consequences

Highlights the possible outcomes, especially negative or undesirable ones, that could result from a particular action or situation.

FAQs

How can I use "might befall" in a sentence?

Use "might befall" to describe a potential misfortune or something negative that could happen. For example, "Consider the challenges that "could befall" the project if funding is cut."

What's a less formal way to say "might befall"?

Alternatives include "could happen to" or "may occur". These options are more suitable for casual conversations or less formal writing.

Is "might befall" a common phrase?

According to Ludwig, "might befall" is used often, making it appropriate for various writing contexts, but keep in mind its slightly formal tone.

Which is a better choice, "might befall" or "could affect"?

The best choice depends on the context. "Might befall" is more formal and suggests a more significant or unfortunate event, while "could affect" is more neutral and general.