spell doom

USAGE SUMMARY

"spell doom" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It means to predict or bring about destruction, failure, or disaster. It can be used in a variety of contexts, such as describing a potential outcome or consequence, or warning about a potential danger. Here is an example of "spell doom" in a sentence: The new government policy has been met with widespread criticism, with many experts warning that it could spell doom for the economy.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Public disgust could spell doom for ODS.

The Economist

A loss will spell doom.

The Guardian - Sport

But they do not spell doom.

The Economist

A failure to zoom can spell doom.

Harvard Business Review

That is regrettable, but it need not spell doom.

The Economist

Does this vulgar truth spell doom for serious artistic aspirations?

The New Yorker

None of this should necessarily spell doom for either party.

The Guardian - Opinion

So the losing streak does not necessarily spell doom for Houston or Denver.

The New York Times

Some think the budget airlines' rise will spell doom for traditional carriers.

The Economist

Then hormone replacement therapy was going to spell doom, causing heart disease, stroke and breast cancer.

The New York Times

Prices soon recovered as investors realized a stingier central bank need not spell doom.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "spell doom" to create a sense of foreboding or impending disaster. It's particularly effective when discussing potential negative consequences of a decision, action, or trend.

Common error

Avoid using "spell doom" in situations where the potential negative outcome is minor or easily reversible. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "spell doom" functions as a predicate in sentences, typically following a subject that represents a potential threat or negative influence. As Ludwig shows, it indicates that the subject is likely to cause a disastrous outcome.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Sport

10%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Science

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "spell doom" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to indicate that something is likely to cause a disastrous outcome. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate for a variety of contexts, including news reporting, business analysis, and even sports commentary. It is most frequently found in news and media, indicating its relevance in discussing potential negative consequences on a broad scale. While it can be used in both formal and informal settings, it is important to avoid overuse, as this can diminish its impact. Alternatives such as "portend disaster" or "foreshadow failure" can provide variety and nuance to writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

portend disaster

Focuses on the predictive aspect of a coming catastrophe.

forebode calamity

Emphasizes a strong feeling that something bad is going to happen.

presage ruin

Highlights the idea of something foreshadowing destruction or collapse.

signal the end

Directly indicates the termination or conclusion of something.

lead to destruction

Focuses on the path or process resulting in destruction.

foreshadow failure

Suggests an anticipation of unsuccessful outcomes.

herald misfortune

Implies the arrival of bad luck or unfavorable circumstances.

augur ill

Indicates that the future looks bleak or unfavorable.

doom is sealed

Emphasizes that the negative outcome is inevitable and unchangeable.

be a harbinger of disaster

Focuses on acting as a sign or indication that disaster is approaching.

FAQs

How can I use "spell doom" in a sentence?

You can use "spell doom" to describe a situation that is likely to lead to a very negative outcome. For example, "A failure to address climate change could "spell doom" for coastal cities".

What's the difference between "spell doom" and "mean disaster"?

"Spell doom" implies a strong likelihood or prediction of a negative outcome, whereas "mean disaster" simply states that something will result in a disastrous event. "Spell doom" carries a stronger sense of inevitability.

What can I say instead of "spell doom"?

You can use alternatives like "portend disaster", "foreshadow failure", or "lead to destruction" depending on the context.

Is "spell doom" formal or informal?

"Spell doom" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it is more commonly found in news and analytical writing. It is not overly colloquial.