prone to cracking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "prone to cracking" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It describes something that has a tendency or likelihood of cracking. Example: "The old wooden deck was prone to cracking under the weight of heavy furniture."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

The suit contended the windshields were prone to cracking.

The New York Times

Many rigid polymer foams are prone to cracking when indented.

Polymer Foams Handbook Engineering and Biomechanics Applications and Design Guide

"The walls of the old building were plaster and very prone to cracking," Mr. Mandart said.

The New York Times

Concrete is prone to cracking, and not everyone likes that effect.

The New York Times

In adapting Yablonovitch's fabrication method, Alta researchers have found ways to create rugged films that aren't prone to cracking.

MIT Technology Review

Nevertheless, these are prone to cracking because of their low tensile strength.

Construction and Building Materials

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

Strätlingite crystals are similar to microfibers added to modern cement to reinforce the interfacial zone where it is prone to crack.

The Washington Post

The results show that the interfaces of dissimilar materials are prone to crack initiations, leading to delaminations because of the high temperature.

Applied Surface Science

The tiles themselves were often more substantial and less prone to crack and the so-called mud job, or the way tiles are set in place, was more careful and adhesive.

The New York Times

Seba Sheavly, director of International Coastal Cleanup, said the company that made most of the world's six-pack holders, ITW Hi-Cone, had made its products thinner and more prone to crack in prolonged sunlight.

The New York Times - Science

In the current system, three locations in the crystal are prone to crack, such as the top shoulder of the crystal, the middle portion above the crucible edge, and the bottom tail portion.

Journal of Crystal Growth

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing materials, use "prone to cracking" to clearly communicate a weakness or potential failure point, which is crucial in engineering, construction, and product design contexts.

Common error

While "prone to cracking" is acceptable in various settings, avoid using it excessively in informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "easily breaks" or "fragile" to maintain a conversational tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "prone to cracking" functions as an adjective phrase describing the characteristic of a subject being likely to develop cracks. As Ludwig AI explains, it indicates a tendency or likelihood. For example, "Concrete is prone to cracking."

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

44%

News & Media

38%

Wiki

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "prone to cracking" is a versatile and grammatically correct expression used to describe the susceptibility of something to develop cracks. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is commonly used and understood in written English. Its applications span various domains, including science, news, and general knowledge, with a particularly strong presence in scientific contexts. When writing, it's crucial to choose alternatives judiciously, maintaining a balance between precision and formality. While alternatives like "susceptible to cracking" are nearly interchangeable, simpler terms might be more suitable in casual settings. Overall, "prone to cracking" is a reliable and informative way to communicate a material's vulnerability to cracking.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

susceptible to cracking

Emphasizes vulnerability or a predisposition to cracking.

tending to crack

Highlights the inclination or likelihood of cracking.

liable to crack

Suggests a risk or probability of cracking.

at risk of cracking

Focuses on the potential danger or exposure to cracking.

vulnerable to cracking

Underscores the weakness and exposure to cracking.

predisposed to cracking

Indicates a natural inclination or inherent tendency to crack.

inclined to crack

Similar to 'tending to crack', but with a slightly weaker emphasis.

apt to crack

Suggests a natural suitability or readiness to crack.

likely to crack

States a strong probability of cracking.

in danger of cracking

Highlights an imminent threat or risk of cracking.

FAQs

What does "prone to cracking" mean?

The phrase "prone to cracking" means something has a tendency or is likely to develop cracks. It suggests a weakness or vulnerability in the object or material being described.

How can I use "prone to cracking" in a sentence?

You might say, "The old concrete is "susceptible to cracking" due to the winter freeze-thaw cycles" or "This type of plastic is "liable to crack" under stress."

What are some alternatives to "prone to cracking"?

Alternatives include "susceptible to cracking", "liable to crack", "tending to crack", or "vulnerable to cracking". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "prone to cracking" formal or informal?

The phrase "prone to cracking" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in very casual conversation, simpler terms like "easily breaks" might be preferred.