severe consequences for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "severe consequences for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the potential negative outcomes or repercussions of a specific action or decision. Example: "If the regulations are not followed, there will be severe consequences for the company."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"This means this is a problem that will lead to very severe consequences for society over several generations".

The New Yorker

That would have very severe consequences for financial stability.

The Guardian

He added: "It's such severe consequences for him.

The Guardian

Thus, their loss can have severe consequences for cells.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A conviction for "terrorism" would have severe consequences for free movement across international borders.

The Guardian - Opinion

The interview could have severe consequences for cycling as a world sport.

The Guardian - Sport

Chelsea fanzine editor David Johnstone believes the incident could have severe consequences for the club's reputation.

The Guardian - Sport

Moreover, failures in the few cases that make it to court have severe consequences for whatever prosecutions may come next.

The Guardian - Opinion

It not only affects young people's happiness and achievement at school, but can have severe consequences for their mental health.

Independent

As competition intensifies for scarce resources, it is already having – and will continue to have – severe consequences for Africa's economic growth, food security, poverty reduction and conflict resolution.

The Guardian - Opinion

His association with the students (he even sheltered their leader, Rudi Dutschke, after an assassination attempt) was to have severe consequences for his standing in Germany.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "severe consequences for", ensure the severity is justified by the context. Avoid hyperbole to maintain credibility.

Common error

Avoid using "severe consequences for" when the impact is minor or easily mitigated. Overstating the impact can diminish the seriousness of genuinely critical situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "severe consequences for" functions as a prepositional phrase that typically follows a verb or verb phrase. It indicates the recipients or targets of negative outcomes resulting from a specific action, event, or situation. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

40%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "severe consequences for" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression that highlights the significant negative outcomes of a particular action or situation. According to Ludwig, its usage is valid and widespread across various contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, as well as scientific publications, this phrase serves to emphasize the gravity of potential repercussions, often acting as a warning or deterrent. When employing this phrase, ensure that the described consequences are genuinely severe to maintain credibility and avoid exaggeration.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

serious ramifications for

Emphasizes the far-reaching and complex nature of the negative outcomes.

grave repercussions for

Highlights the solemn and significant nature of the results.

dire outcomes for

Focuses on the extremely bad or dreadful results.

critical implications for

Underscores the importance and significance of the potential effects.

major consequences for

Indicates that the results are substantial and noteworthy.

substantial impact on

Shifts focus to the degree of influence or effect on something.

significant effects on

Highlights the notable changes or results produced.

considerable repercussions for

Indicates that the impact is of a noticeable or important size.

harsh penalties for

Specifies that the consequences involve punishment or strict measures.

negative impacts on

General term for adverse effects, suitable for a wide range of contexts.

FAQs

How can I use "severe consequences for" in a sentence?

You can use "severe consequences for" to describe the negative outcomes of a particular action or situation. For example, "Failing to comply with these regulations will have "severe consequences for" the company's reputation".

What are some alternatives to "severe consequences for"?

Alternatives include phrases like "serious ramifications for", "grave repercussions for", or "dire outcomes for", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is there a difference between "severe consequences for" and "serious consequences for"?

While both phrases indicate negative results, "severe consequences for" suggests a greater degree of intensity and potential harm compared to "serious consequences for". The choice depends on the magnitude of the impact you're describing.

In what contexts is "severe consequences for" most appropriate?

"Severe consequences for" is most appropriate when discussing situations where the negative outcomes are significant, potentially causing substantial damage or harm, such as in legal, environmental, or health-related contexts.