much was at risk

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "much was at risk" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that there are significant stakes or potential consequences involved in a situation. Example: "In the final moments of the negotiation, much was at risk, and both parties knew they had to reach an agreement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

He said much was at risk following its closure.

The Guardian

All of the participants emphasised how much was at risk.

BMC Health Services Research

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

If this prop does not pass, much is at risk.

University of California, Berkeley

Indeed people are amazed how little benefit will be gained and how much is at risk.

The Guardian

The majority of businesses do not hedge against weather risks, nor do they have an accurate view on how much is at risk.

Harvard Business Review

Analysis of the facts shows just how much is at risk by leaving Euratom, and how complex this process is, given the government's unnecessary, self-imposed deadline.

The Guardian - Opinion

She puts in sixteen-hour days because she knows how much is at risk.

Duke University

If the great divide widens and Germany digs in its heels then much is at risk.

BBC

Much is at risk.

Huffington Post

We cannot be complacent, far too much is at risk".

Huffington Post

This is the only responsible course of action, and far too much is at risk to do otherwise.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "much was at risk" to emphasize the potential for significant negative consequences in a situation. It adds weight and seriousness to your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "much was at risk" when describing minor inconveniences or trivial problems. This phrase is best reserved for scenarios with genuinely high stakes or serious potential consequences, as it can sound hyperbolic if used inappropriately.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "much was at risk" functions as a descriptive phrase, indicating that a situation involves significant potential loss or negative consequences. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Academia

32%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "much was at risk" is a grammatically sound and effective way to convey that a situation carries significant potential for loss or negative consequences. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While not exceedingly common, it's appropriate for various contexts, particularly news, scientific, and academic discussions. When using this phrase, ensure the context genuinely warrants a sense of high stakes. Consider alternatives like "a great deal was at stake" or "significant consequences were possible" for nuanced variations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a great deal was at stake

Emphasizes the importance of the outcome, focusing on what could be gained or lost.

significant consequences were possible

Highlights the potential negative outcomes or repercussions.

the stakes were high

Focuses on the elevated level of risk and potential loss.

a lot could be lost

Directly states the potential for negative outcomes or forfeits.

there was a high degree of hazard

Highlights the peril and possibility of harm.

considerable danger existed

Focuses on the presence of a substantial threat.

the situation was precarious

Highlights the instability and potential for adverse outcomes.

serious repercussions were anticipated

Emphasizes the expected negative consequences.

substantial losses were in prospect

Indicates the expectation of significant forfeits or damages.

everything was on the line

Focuses on the idea that all one's resources and prospects hung in the balance.

FAQs

What does "much was at risk" mean?

The phrase "much was at risk" signifies that a situation involves a high degree of potential loss or negative consequences. It implies that the outcome is important and that failure could result in significant damage or harm.

What can I say instead of "much was at risk"?

You can use alternatives like "a great deal was at stake", "significant consequences were possible", or "the stakes were high" to convey a similar meaning.

Is "much was at risk" formal or informal?

"Much was at risk" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It is often found in news articles, academic papers, and general discussions where serious consequences are being discussed.

How do I use "much was at risk" in a sentence?

You can use "much was at risk" to describe a situation where the potential for negative outcomes is high. For example, "In the negotiations, much was at risk for both companies" or "With the impending storm, much was at risk for the coastal communities".