ominous implications

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ominous implications" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing potential negative consequences or foreboding outcomes of a situation or action. Example: "The scientist warned about the ominous implications of climate change on global ecosystems."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

That has ominous implications.

The New York Times

That has ominous implications for investors.

The New York Times

That could have ominous implications for future global economic growth unless it is quickly reversed.

The New York Times

If so, it has ominous implications, because hundreds have died in clashes between Nigeria's Muslims and Christians in recent years.

The New York Times

Van Commenee has a fierce reputation, and his words carried some ominous implications for those who had underperformed.

The Guardian - Sport

Webster Groves's indecision and desire to know more reflect national trends that hold ominous implications for Mr. Bush.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

Scores of journalists (including me) descended on Edinburgh, and wrote that the achievement, while wondrous, also carried the ominous implication that scientists had finally pried open Pandora's box.

The New Yorker

An ominous implication of the new research, some scientists say, is that humans may already or will soon have destroyed enough species that it will require a full 10 million years for the planet to recover -- 20 times as long as humans have already existed and longer than many scientists predict humanity itself is likely to persist into the future.

The New York Times

The audience responded with laughter and applause, which the Court of Appeals would later view as potentially ominous: [I]t has not been unknown for laughter and applause to have sinister implications for the safety of others.

Wikipedia

He added, however, "It need not follow that this risk-taking has ominous systemic implications".

The New York Times

But "Blurred Lines," the song on which it is based, has already been the subject of numerous parodies in the past year, for its odd video and clueless use of hashtags, and, more importantly, for its creepy and ominous sexual implications.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Pair "ominous implications" with strong verbs to amplify the sense of impending negativity. For example, "The data reveals ominous implications for the future of the species."

Common error

Avoid using "ominous implications" when the situation warrants a less severe term. The phrase is best reserved for situations with genuinely serious or threatening potential outcomes. Using it for minor inconveniences dilutes its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ominous implications" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "ominous" modifies the noun "implications". It serves to highlight potentially negative or threatening consequences arising from a particular situation or action. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "ominous implications" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrase that effectively conveys a sense of foreboding regarding potential negative outcomes. Ludwig AI highlights its frequent appearance in news and scientific contexts, indicating its suitability for formal and professional communication. When using this phrase, ensure that the context clearly justifies the strong sense of potential danger or negativity. The related phrases and usage guidance provided offer further assistance in crafting precise and impactful statements. It's important to note that while the phrase is correct and usable, it should be reserved for scenarios with genuinely serious potential consequences to avoid diluting its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

threatening consequences

Replaces "implications" with the more direct and forceful "consequences", emphasizing the potential for harm.

foreboding ramifications

Substitutes both "ominous" and "implications" with synonyms that heighten the sense of impending doom and broader impact.

ill-boding portents

Uses more literary and archaic terms to create a stronger sense of unease and foreshadowing.

dire repercussions

Emphasizes the severity and negative impact of the potential outcomes.

grim consequences

Replaces "ominous" with "grim", focusing on the somber and bleak nature of the outcomes.

unfavorable outcomes

Offers a less dramatic but still negative framing of potential results.

negative consequences

Presents a straightforward and less emotionally charged alternative.

concerning developments

Shifts the focus to the unfolding events themselves, rather than their potential outcomes.

worrying signs

Highlights the indicators of potential trouble, rather than the outcomes themselves.

alarming prospects

Focuses on the future possibilities and their potential to cause concern.

FAQs

How can I use "ominous implications" in a sentence?

You can use "ominous implications" to describe potential negative outcomes or consequences that create a sense of foreboding. For example, "The study's findings have "ominous implications for" public health policy."

What are some alternatives to "ominous implications"?

Some alternatives include "threatening consequences", "foreboding ramifications", or "dire repercussions", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "ominous implications" in formal writing?

Yes, "ominous implications" is suitable for formal writing, especially in contexts where you need to convey a serious or foreboding tone. Ensure that the context justifies the strength of the phrase.

What is the difference between "ominous implications" and "negative consequences"?

"Ominous implications" carries a stronger sense of foreboding and potential danger than the more neutral "negative consequences". "Ominous implications" suggests that the consequences are not only negative but also deeply concerning and potentially threatening.