that might compromise

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that might compromise" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing potential risks or vulnerabilities that could affect a situation, decision, or integrity. Example: "We need to ensure that our actions do not take any steps that might compromise the security of our data."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They can result in unexpected high temperatures that might compromise the reactor safety or performance.

Chemical Engineering Science

We have avoided anything that might compromise intelligence-gathering methods, like communications intercepts.

The New York Times

"It worries me more that we might put him in a situation that might compromise him.

The Guardian - Music

Even on the personal site, Ms. Lennon steers clear of anything that might compromise her objectivity.

The New York Times

However, whether baculovirus transduction provokes undesired MSCs responses that might compromise their in vivo applications has yet to be examined.

Molecular Therapy

We have avoided anything that might compromise American or allied intelligence-gathering methods such as communications intercepts.

The New York Times

It is not foolproof and many substances that might compromise safe working practices simply do not show up.

Independent

"I do not want to be associated with anything that might compromise her integrity drug-wise," she said.

The New York Times - Sports

Yet makers of nuclear reactors cannot take risks that might compromise safety, and they cannot try lots of different things because it would be too expensive.

The Economist

"I make no apologies," Mr. Obama said, about being concerned about "information that might compromise their missions or might get them killed".

The New York Times

They are not eligible for resettlement since that might compromise the Palestinians right to return, a matter to be negotiated in Israeli-Palestinian peace talks.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "that might compromise", ensure that the subject of the clause is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity about what is potentially at risk. Maintain a consistent tone suitable to the context. For instance, in formal writing, opt for more precise synonyms if available.

Common error

Avoid relying excessively on "that might compromise" in formal or scientific writing. Strive for more specific and impactful language to precisely convey the nature and extent of the potential risk or vulnerability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that might compromise" functions as a relative clause introducing a potential negative consequence. It modifies a preceding noun, indicating a possible risk or vulnerability. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English, serving to discuss potential threats.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "that might compromise" is a commonly used phrase that introduces a potential risk or negative consequence. As Ludwig AI highlights, it is grammatically correct and usable across various contexts, though specific synonyms may be more impactful in formal writing. Predominantly found in news, science, and academic sources, the phrase serves to express caution or concern, modifying nouns to indicate potential vulnerabilities or dangers. It is crucial to use the phrase judiciously, ensuring clarity and avoiding overuse, particularly in formal contexts where more precise language may be preferable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that could jeopardize

Emphasizes the risk of failure or loss, similar to compromising a situation.

that may undermine

Focuses on weakening or eroding the foundation of something.

that might endanger

Highlights the potential for putting something at risk of harm or extinction.

that could weaken

Implies a reduction in strength or effectiveness.

that may threaten

Suggests a possible danger or menace.

that might impair

Focuses on diminishing the quality or effectiveness of something.

that could harm

Emphasizes the potential for causing damage or injury.

that may impede

Highlights the possibility of obstructing or hindering progress.

that could mar

Suggests a potential for spoiling or detracting from perfection.

that might destabilize

Focuses on the potential for causing instability or imbalance.

FAQs

How can I use "that might compromise" in a sentence?

Use "that might compromise" to introduce a clause indicating a potential risk or negative impact. For example, "We must avoid actions "that might compromise" the integrity of the data."

What are some alternatives to "that might compromise"?

Alternatives include phrases such as "that could jeopardize", "that may undermine", or "that might endanger", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to use "that might compromise" or "that could compromise"?

Both "that might compromise" and "that could compromise" are grammatically correct and largely interchangeable. The choice depends on stylistic preference, with "could" often indicating a slightly higher probability than "might."

When should I avoid using the phrase "that might compromise"?

While generally acceptable, avoid overusing "that might compromise" in very formal or scientific contexts. Opt for more precise and impactful language to clearly define the specific risks or vulnerabilities involved.