of serious consequence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'of serious consequence' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that has dire or long-reaching effects. For example: "We must address this issue immediately, as its consequences are of serious consequence."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

The offense is of serious consequence.

Harvard Business Review

But what happens to a weary, easily distracted, often affectless voice when something of serious consequence occurs in his life?

The Guardian - Books

But with this new play, a sweet and satiric meditation on the beautiful folly of idealism, he establishes himself as a writer and artist of serious consequence.

The New York Times

"What's different is that bills of serious consequence have actually passed," said Nancy Northrup, president of the Center for Reproductive Rights, who characterized the volume of legislation as "an avalanche".

The New York Times

We will study how to think strategically and apply that thinking to cases that are still active arenas of conflict over ideals of justice and the realities of power imbalance, where the risks of failure are both present and of serious consequence.

Harvard University

Now a mix of falling energy consumption, new pipelines that skirt round Russia, the exploitation elsewhere of shale gas and oil, and the subjection of Russian energy producers to EU competition rules has eroded his clout.Yet Russia is still a power of serious consequence.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

US president Barack Obama warns of "serious consequences".

The Guardian

Japan and South Korea gave warning of serious consequences if a test proceeded.

The Economist

However, when socio-political aspects are involved, such movements are really of serious consequences.

Princeton University

The common nature of the offense did not erase the threat of serious consequences.

The New Yorker

David Cameron warned the Iranian government of "serious consequences" for failing to protect Britain's diplomatic staff.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "of serious consequence" when you want to emphasize the significant and potentially impactful nature of an event, decision, or situation. This phrase is effective in formal writing and speech where a strong and considered tone is appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "of serious consequence" in casual conversations or informal writing. The phrase can sound overly formal or pretentious in such settings. Opt for simpler alternatives like "very important" or "really matters" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "of serious consequence" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun to emphasize its importance or the gravity of the situation it describes. As Ludwig AI highlights, the phrase indicates that something carries substantial weight or potential impact.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "of serious consequence" is a formal expression used to emphasize the importance and potential impact of a situation, event, or decision. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in written English. While commonly found in news, academic, and scientific contexts, its formal register makes it less suitable for casual conversation. Remember to use this phrase when you want to highlight the gravity of a situation and encourage careful consideration, while being mindful of the context to avoid sounding overly formal.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

highly significant

A more direct way to state significance.

critically important

Stresses the necessity or crucial nature of something.

of major significance

Similar to "of great importance" but slightly stronger.

of great importance

Replaces "consequence" with a more general term for importance.

vitally important

Highlights the essential nature of something.

of significant import

Uses a more formal synonym for "importance".

of paramount importance

Indicates the highest level of importance.

of considerable weight

Emphasizes the impact or influence of something.

with grave implications

Focuses on the potential results or effects.

with far-reaching effects

Highlights the scope and extent of the consequences.

FAQs

How can I use "of serious consequence" in a sentence?

You can use "of serious consequence" to emphasize the importance of a situation. For example: "The decision to cut funding for education is "of serious consequence" for future generations."

What are some alternatives to "of serious consequence"?

Alternatives include "of great importance", "highly significant", or "critically important". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "of serious consequence" formal or informal?

"Of serious consequence" is a formal phrase. It is best suited for academic, professional, or journalistic writing. In casual conversation, simpler alternatives might be more appropriate.

What is the difference between "of serious consequence" and "of serious consequences"?

"Of serious consequence" refers to a singular issue or situation that has a significant impact. "Of serious consequences" refers to the multiple effects or results stemming from a single action or event.