storm clouds gathering

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "storm clouds gathering" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used metaphorically to describe a situation that is becoming tense or threatening, often implying that trouble is on the horizon. Example: "As tensions rose between the two countries, many felt that storm clouds were gathering, signaling a potential conflict."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

With storm clouds gathering, something witchy this way comes.

The New York Times

Storm clouds gathering on the horizon, old chap.

The New York Times

Now, however, back in the basement police headquarters, Nuñez could see the storm clouds gathering fast".

The New Yorker

It was a pale-blue wintry day, with pewter storm clouds gathering.

The New Yorker

Its boss, Sajid Javid, thinks Brexit "too risky", given the "storm clouds gathering over Europe".

The Guardian - Opinion

With ominous news about "storm clouds gathering" and yet more cuts on the way, our eyes naturally darken.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

But what sort of rising power is India?Special report An elephant, not a tiger The democracy tax is rising Storm-clouds gathering The world is rocky Creaking, groaning Where invisible threads fray India elsewhere Ruled by Lakshmi Sources & acknowledgmentsReprintsOn foreign policy, in which until recently India had little interest outside South Asia, it is starting to look a bit like China.

The Economist

But with investors struggling to find cash, the RBI is now worried about growth.Special report An elephant, not a tiger The democracy tax is rising Storm-clouds gathering The world is rocky Creaking, groaning Where invisible threads fray India elsewhere Ruled by Lakshmi Sources & acknowledgmentsReprintsEven before global confidence dived, India's economy was slowing.

The Economist

Storm clouds gathered.

The Guardian

Elliott Auckland says storm clouds are gathering in Moscow.

The New York Times

Second, economic storm clouds are gathering in the West.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "storm clouds gathering" to add a sense of foreboding or tension to your writing. It's particularly effective when describing economic downturns, political conflicts, or personal crises.

Common error

While effective, "storm clouds gathering" is a well-known idiom. Avoid overuse by occasionally opting for more direct or nuanced descriptions of impending problems. Consider alternatives like "trouble brewing" or "ominous signs appearing".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "storm clouds gathering" primarily functions as an idiom, serving as a figurative way to describe the increasing likelihood of trouble or negative events. As Ludwig AI highlights, this metaphor is frequently used to add a sense of foreboding.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Arts

17%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Science

6%

Reference

11%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The idiom "storm clouds gathering" effectively conveys a sense of impending trouble or negativity, frequently used across various contexts. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. While common, overuse can lead to cliché, suggesting writers consider alternatives to maintain freshness. Its frequency in news and media underscores its utility in alerting audiences to potential difficulties. Consider varying your descriptions to avoid repetition, but embrace the power of this idiom to add depth to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dark clouds looming

Similar to the original phrase but emphasizes the imposing nature of the impending problem.

trouble brewing

Focuses on the initial stages of a problem, suggesting it's developing.

ominous signs appearing

Highlights the visibility of negative indicators, suggesting a more passive observation of developing issues.

danger is approaching

Highlights that a perilous situation is nearing.

a crisis is on the horizon

More directly states the potential for a critical event.

challenges are mounting

Implies an increasing number of problems.

difficulties are emerging

A more general term that points out problems are becoming apparent.

a threat is materializing

Focuses on the realization of a potential danger.

ill winds blowing

A more metaphorical expression suggesting misfortune is coming.

bad news is coming

A straightforward indication that something negative is about to happen.

FAQs

What does "storm clouds gathering" mean?

The phrase "storm clouds gathering" is an idiom that means trouble or problems are on the horizon. It suggests that a difficult or negative situation is developing.

How can I use "storm clouds gathering" in a sentence?

You can use "storm clouds gathering" to describe situations where problems are becoming apparent. For example: "Economic storm clouds were gathering as unemployment rates began to rise."

What are some alternatives to saying "storm clouds gathering"?

Alternatives include "trouble brewing", "ominous signs appearing", or "dark clouds looming", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "storm clouds gathering" a cliché?

Yes, "storm clouds gathering" is a fairly common idiom and can be considered a cliché if overused. While effective, it's good to vary your language and consider more direct or creative ways to describe impending problems to avoid sounding repetitive.