serious breach

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "serious breach" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where a significant violation of rules, laws, or agreements is being discussed. Example: "The company faced severe penalties due to a serious breach of contract with its suppliers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Tyrie said: "This was a serious breach.

The Guardian - Business

That is the most serious breach here.

The Guardian - Film

"This is serious breach of data protection.

The Guardian - Tech

"This was a serious breach of commuter etiquette," he said.

The New York Times

He interrupted the discussion, a serious breach of etiquette.

The New York Times - Magazine

"This would be a serious breach of confidence.

The Guardian

It was the most serious breach of the cease-fire.

The Washington Post

"This case is considered to represent the most serious breach of the medicine control regime - it's the most serious breach that has happened in the EU.

Independent

Academic misconduct and research misconduct constitute a serious breach of academic integrity.

Yale University

"Ofcom considers this to be a very serious breach of the Code.

Independent

First, there has undoubtedly been a serious breach of Kenya's electoral law.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "serious breach" when you want to emphasize the significant negative consequences or implications of a violation, error, or failure. Consider the context and whether the phrase accurately conveys the severity of the situation.

Common error

Avoid using "serious breach" to describe trivial errors or minor inconveniences. Overusing it can dilute its impact and make your writing seem hyperbolic. Save it for situations where the consequences are genuinely significant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "serious breach" functions as a noun phrase, where 'serious' modifies 'breach'. It's typically used as the subject or object of a sentence to describe a significant violation or failure. Ludwig AI's examples demonstrate its use in various contexts, emphasizing the gravity of the infraction.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Science

8%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "serious breach" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe a significant violation or failure. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread usage. It is most frequently found in news and media, academic, and formal business contexts. Related phrases include "major violation" and "grave infraction". When using this phrase, consider its implications and avoid overusing it in trivial situations. In conclusion, "serious breach" is a powerful term that should be reserved for situations that warrant its weight.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

major violation

Emphasizes the act of violating a rule or law, similar to a breach.

significant violation

Underscores the notable nature of the rule or agreement being broken.

flagrant violation

Emphasizes the blatant and deliberate nature of the breach.

grave infraction

Highlights the seriousness of the violation or misdeed.

acute infraction

Stresses the intensity or severity of the breaking.

severe transgression

Focuses on the act of going beyond acceptable limits.

substantial infringement

Highlights the extent to which a right or rule has been violated.

egregious offense

Stresses the shocking or outrageous nature of the transgression.

critical failure

Indicates a significant breakdown or inability to perform as expected.

major dereliction

Highlights a serious failure to fulfill a duty or responsibility.

FAQs

How can I use "serious breach" in a sentence?

You can use "serious breach" to describe a significant violation of a rule, law, or agreement. For example: "The company faced severe penalties due to a "serious breach" of contract with its suppliers."

What are some alternatives to "serious breach"?

Alternatives include "major violation", "significant infraction", or "grave transgression". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is it better to say "serious breach" or "major breach"?

"Serious breach" and "major breach" are often interchangeable, but "serious" can imply a greater degree of consequence or impact. Consider the specific situation when deciding which to use.

What's the difference between a "serious breach" and a "minor breach"?

A "serious breach" involves a significant violation with potentially severe consequences, whereas a "minor breach" is a less consequential violation with limited impact.