severe debt

USAGE SUMMARY

"severe debt" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
For example: "His family was burdened by severe debt, so he had to spend every evening working two jobs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

One vulnerable example is Tanzania, a country that suffered a severe debt crisis in the 1990s.

The Guardian - Business

Faced with a severe debt crisis, euro-zone leaders are planning to strengthen existing constraints.

The Economist

It reckons 21 million UK people are struggling with bills, with 2.6 million living with a severe debt problem.

Independent

He was in such severe debt with the local heavies that he had been compelled to give up the entire back room to them and their pleasures.

The New Yorker

Many hoped it would bring Brazil prosperity, but today their biggest energy company Petrobras is facing up to severe debt, scandal and the risks of deep water drilling.

The Guardian

Borrowers in severe debt difficulties are being charged thousands of pounds in interest by a company that has bought their loans.

The Guardian - Money

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

He was succeeded by his illegitimate son George Ferguson who, despite incurring severe debts, continued to develop the estate by adding a stable block, race course, an observation tower and other follies.

Wikipedia

"He has no idea how severe this debt crisis is.

The New York Times

Instead, students are forced to forgo necessary care or incur severe medical debt.

The New York Times

In 1894 Antoine, in severe financial debt, relinquished the Théâtre-Libre to another director, who ran it until 1896.

Encyclopedia Britannica

With over seven million people already using credit to pay for everyday essentials, there is a real danger of more falling into severe problem debt".

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing the impact of "severe debt", be specific about the consequences, such as bankruptcy, foreclosure, or reduced creditworthiness.

Common error

Avoid using "severe debt" when simply referring to any level of debt. "Severe debt" implies a critical and potentially unmanageable level of financial obligation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "severe debt" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective 'severe' modifies the noun 'debt'. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its use in various contexts, from personal finance to national economies.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "severe debt" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a critical level of financial obligation. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability. Its function is to highlight a precarious financial situation, and it appears frequently in news, science, and wiki contexts. When using this phrase, consider the specific consequences and avoid using it for minor debt issues. Alternatives such as "critical debt" or "crushing debt burden" may provide nuanced emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

critical debt

Emphasizes the urgency and potential danger of the debt level.

extreme indebtedness

Highlights the excessive amount of debt owed.

crushing debt burden

Focuses on the oppressive and overwhelming impact of the debt.

unsustainable debt

Indicates that the debt cannot be maintained or repaid.

precarious financial situation

Shifts the focus to the overall instability caused by the debt.

heavy financial strain

Highlights the stress and pressure resulting from the debt.

unmanageable liabilities

Emphasizes the inability to control or handle the debt.

dire economic straits

Broadens the context to encompass the severe economic hardship.

serious fiscal difficulties

Focuses on the significant problems related to financial management.

deep financial trouble

Suggests a profound and problematic state of financial affairs.

FAQs

What are the consequences of having "severe debt"?

Having "severe debt" can lead to various negative outcomes, including bankruptcy, foreclosure, repossession of assets, damaged credit scores, and increased stress. Addressing "debt consolidation" or seeking financial counseling can be helpful.

How does "severe debt" differ from moderate debt?

"Severe debt" implies an amount of debt that is difficult or impossible to repay, often leading to significant financial distress. Moderate debt, while still a concern, is typically manageable with budgeting and repayment strategies.

What are some strategies for managing "severe debt"?

Strategies for managing "severe debt" include creating a budget, prioritizing debt repayment, seeking professional financial advice, exploring "debt management programs", and considering options like debt consolidation or bankruptcy.

What can I say instead of "severe debt"?

Alternatives to "severe debt" include "critical debt", "crushing debt burden", or "unsustainable debt", depending on the specific aspect you want to emphasize.