setting a dangerous precedent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "setting a dangerous precedent" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing actions or decisions that may lead to negative consequences or behaviors being accepted in the future. Example: "By allowing this policy to pass, we are setting a dangerous precedent that could undermine our values."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

This is setting a dangerous precedent for what employers may come to expect from their employees.

The New York Times

Media's restrictions on ground-floor usage, she said, may be setting a dangerous precedent.

The New York Times

At the New York summit Australia's asylum regime has been criticised as setting a dangerous precedent.

The Guardian

The US is setting a dangerous precedent by marking Horsley as persona non grata.

The Guardian - Arts

It was precisely for fear of setting a dangerous precedent that the government's critics had attacked this proposal.

The Economist

Still, some lawmakers warned that they were setting a dangerous precedent by failing to crack down on Mr. Sanford's conduct.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

"This sets a dangerous precedent.

The New York Times

"This sets a dangerous precedent," he said.

The New York Times

This alone sets a dangerous precedent.

The New York Times

The law sets a dangerous precedent, though.

The Guardian - Opinion

The Worcester case sets a dangerous precedent.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "setting a dangerous precedent", clearly articulate why the action or decision is problematic and what potential negative consequences may arise. Providing context helps strengthen your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "setting a dangerous precedent" hyperbolically. Reserve it for situations with genuinely significant and far-reaching implications, not minor inconveniences or disagreements.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "setting a dangerous precedent" functions as a critical evaluation of a decision or action. It highlights the potential for that action to establish a pattern or justification for future, undesirable outcomes. Ludwig AI confirms that it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "setting a dangerous precedent" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to caution against actions that could lead to undesirable consequences in the future. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. It is particularly prevalent in news and media contexts, often used to critique policy decisions or actions with potentially far-reaching implications. When employing this phrase, clarity is key: articulate the specific risks and potential downsides to strengthen your argument and avoid overuse in less critical situations. Alternatives such as "establishing a harmful example" or "creating a risky standard" can provide nuanced variations to your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

establishing a harmful example

Focuses on the negative consequences of the action being copied.

creating a risky standard

Highlights the uncertainty and potential pitfalls of the new benchmark.

paving the way for negative outcomes

Emphasizes the inevitability of undesirable results.

opening the door to abuse

Implies vulnerability and exploitation as a result.

laying the foundation for future problems

Stresses the long-term implications and potential for escalation.

starting down a slippery slope

Suggests an inevitable decline or series of negative consequences.

normalizing undesirable behavior

Highlights the risk of making unacceptable actions commonplace.

legitimizing problematic actions

Focuses on the validation or justification of potentially harmful deeds.

creating a problematic norm

Emphasizes the establishment of a potentially detrimental standard practice.

authorizing future misconduct

Highlights the authorization of bad actions in the future.

FAQs

How can I use "setting a dangerous precedent" in a sentence?

You can use "setting a dangerous precedent" to describe an action or decision that could lead to negative consequences or behaviors being accepted in the future. For example: "By allowing this exception, we are setting a dangerous precedent."

What can I say instead of "setting a dangerous precedent"?

Alternatives include "establishing a harmful example", "creating a risky standard", or "paving the way for negative outcomes", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "setting a dangerous precedent" a formal or informal phrase?

"Setting a dangerous precedent" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing to ensure it aligns with your intended message.

What's the difference between "setting a dangerous precedent" and "making an exception"?

"Setting a dangerous precedent" implies that the current action may lead to similar, potentially negative actions in the future. "Making an exception" is a one-time deviation from the norm, without necessarily implying future consequences.