potential for disaster

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "potential for disaster" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing risks or negative outcomes that may arise from a particular situation or action. Example: "The lack of safety measures in the construction site presents a significant potential for disaster."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"The potential for disaster is very great".

Independent

The potential for disaster is evident.

The Guardian

There's such a high potential for disaster.

The New Yorker

I set about eliminating the potential for disaster.

The Guardian - Music

The potential for disaster seems to interest the press.

The New York Times - Arts

"There is a potential for disaster here," Mr. Macaluso said.

The New York Times - Tech

The potential for disaster is what keeps their marriage sexy.

The New Yorker

As far as the potential for disaster, Mark and Scott's parents are philosophical.

The New York Times

After all, the potential for disaster, of both the humiliating and the boring varieties, is large.

The New York Times

This has clear potential for disaster if the goals are badly set.

The Guardian - Opinion

When you encourage this usage with business information, the potential for disaster becomes that much higher.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To enhance clarity, follow "potential for disaster" with a concise explanation of the scope and impact of the possible negative outcome.

Common error

Avoid using "potential for disaster" when the situation only presents a minor inconvenience or setback. Save the phrase for scenarios involving significant harm or widespread negative consequences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "potential for disaster" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. As Ludwig AI points out, it describes a situation where there is a possibility of something significantly negative occurring. It indicates the existence of underlying factors or conditions that could lead to a calamitous outcome.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "potential for disaster" is a commonly used noun phrase to describe situations with a significant risk of a negative outcome. Ludwig AI analysis reveals it's grammatically correct and frequently found in news and media, as well as scientific contexts. While the phrase is generally neutral in register, it carries a serious tone and aims to highlight the need for caution and preventative action. Consider alternatives like "risk of catastrophe" or "likelihood of failure" depending on the specific context. Remember to clearly define the contributing factors when using this phrase and avoid overstating the risk in minor situations. Overall, being mindful of the potential for misinterpretations will enhance your written communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

risk of catastrophe

Focuses on the severity and scale of the possible negative outcome.

prospect of catastrophe

Similar to "risk of catastrophe" but emphasizes a future outlook.

threat of calamity

Emphasizes the impending danger and the sense of foreboding.

recipe for disaster

Similar to "ingredients for disaster", but has a more direct and explicit feel.

likelihood of failure

Highlights the probability that a project or endeavor will not succeed.

danger of collapse

Focuses on the possibility of a system or structure failing.

possibility of a crisis

Suggests a situation that could escalate into a critical state.

peril of misfortune

Emphasizes the potential harm or suffering that could result.

seeds of destruction

Suggests the early stages of a process that will lead to a disastrous outcome.

ingredients for disaster

Highlights the combination of factors that could cause a negative outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "potential for disaster" in a sentence?

You can use "potential for disaster" to describe situations where there is a risk of something going seriously wrong. For example, "The lack of funding for infrastructure maintenance creates a significant "potential for disaster"".

What are some alternatives to "potential for disaster"?

Alternatives include "risk of catastrophe", "threat of calamity", or "likelihood of failure", depending on the specific context you wish to convey.

Is it always negative to have a "potential for disaster"?

Yes, "potential for disaster" always refers to a negative possibility. It highlights the risk of a significantly harmful or catastrophic outcome. If the intent is not negative, different phrasing is recommended.

What makes "potential for disaster" different from "risk"?

"Risk" generally implies a chance of something negative happening, while "potential for disaster" suggests the possibility of something severely damaging or catastrophic. The latter emphasizes the scale and severity of the potential negative outcome.