seriously derailed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seriously derailed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation that has gone off course or has been significantly disrupted, often in a serious or impactful way. Example: "The project was going well until the budget cuts seriously derailed our progress."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

At age 39 and seeking to become the undisputed champion before he retires, Holyfield 37-5-2 37-5-2 37-5-2ns seriously derailed.

The New York Times - Sports

Throw in two off days, and it marks the perfect opportunity for Texas to get on track, or get seriously derailed.

The New York Times - Sports

While outsiders have a limited view of Iran's nuclear program, the Obama administration officials said they believed that the bomb-development effort was seriously derailed by the exposure three months ago of the country's secret enrichment plant under construction near the holy city of Qum.

The New York Times

Yet the result surpassed the 8% target set by authorities at the beginning of the year, and was extraordinarily strong considering the fall in exports, which could have seriously derailed investment, consumer confidence and spending: –China's fiscal package was set at 4 trillion yuan ($585 billion).

Forbes

They told stories of lives not destroyed but seriously derailed.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

American policymakers would do well to disregard Mr. Trichet's sanguine remarks and brace themselves for a European economic tsunami that is all too likely to seriously derail the fragile U.S. economic recovery.

The New York Times

"It was clear from the start in this operation that there could be a Qana, given how Hamas has chosen to fight, and it could seriously derail Israeli operational plans," Mr. Alpher said.

The New York Times

Unfounded vaccine safety concerns have the potential of seriously derailing effective immunization activities.

Vaccine

Dealing with divorce or a death in the family can seriously derail an employee.

Forbes

And a loss for either team would seriously derail hopes of catching Barcelona and AC Milan, who lead the way on seven and five points, respectively.

BBC

That could seriously derail the transition to democracy, further delaying new parliamentary elections, which could deter Egypt's political leaders from taking tough decisions while they wait for the vote.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "seriously derailed" to emphasize a significant and unexpected disruption to plans, progress, or expectations. It is more impactful than simply saying something was "delayed" or "inconvenienced".

Common error

Avoid using "seriously derailed" for minor inconveniences or slight delays. Reserve it for situations where the disruption has significant and lasting consequences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seriously derailed" functions as a verb phrase where "seriously" intensifies the verb "derailed". It indicates a significant disruption or deviation from an intended course. Ludwig AI indicates that is a correct usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "seriously derailed" is a grammatically sound and effective way to describe a situation that has been significantly disrupted or thrown off course. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English, suitable for formal writing when conveying significant setbacks. While not as common as simpler terms like "delayed", it adds emphasis to the severity of the disruption. The primary usage context is News & Media. Related phrases include "severely disrupted" and "significantly hampered". When using this phrase, ensure the disruption is indeed significant and avoid overusing it for minor setbacks.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

severely disrupted

Emphasizes the extent of the disruption caused.

badly affected

Focuses on the negative impact or consequences.

significantly hampered

Highlights the obstruction or impediment created.

substantially delayed

Indicates a considerable postponement or setback.

critically undermined

Stresses the weakening or damaging effect on something.

majorly setback

Implies a significant obstacle or reversal.

gravely jeopardized

Suggests a serious risk or threat to something.

remarkably hindered

Highlights how progress has been impeded to a notable degree.

fundamentally wrecked

Expresses severe destruction or ruin.

substantially impaired

Focuses on the significant damage or weakening.

FAQs

How can I use "seriously derailed" in a sentence?

You can use "seriously derailed" to describe plans, projects, or even someone's life when a significant event has thrown them off course. For example, "The pandemic "seriously derailed" our travel plans."

What's a good alternative to "seriously derailed"?

Alternatives include "severely disrupted", "badly affected", or "significantly hampered", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "seriously derailed" in formal writing?

Yes, "seriously derailed" is appropriate in formal writing, especially when describing significant setbacks or disruptions. However, consider the specific context and whether a more precise term might be more suitable.

What is the difference between "derailed" and "seriously derailed"?

While "derailed" simply means something has gone off course, ""seriously derailed"" implies a more severe and impactful disruption. The addition of "seriously" emphasizes the magnitude of the setback.