threat of extinction

USAGE SUMMARY

"threat of extinction" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It refers to the possibility or potential for a species, organism, or group to become completely extinct. Here is an example sentence using this phrase: "The threat of extinction for many endangered species is a critical issue that needs to be addressed by conservation efforts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Across the globe, hundreds of animal species face a grave and increasing threat of extinction.

Huffington Post

Today, parrots face a serious threat of extinction.

The Washington Post

But the threat of extinction means deep cuts in budgets for "real" news.

The Guardian

One elderly graduate arrived in a dodo tie to symbolise tradition's threat of extinction.

The Guardian

The lizards are native to the Bahamas and classed as being under threat of extinction.

Independent

Two of these unprotected sites contain endemic frog species under imminent threat of extinction.

Landscape and Urban Planning

By fathering hundreds, a giant tortoise in the Galápagos Islands reversed the threat of extinction.

The New York Times

"General practice as we know it is now under severe threat of extinction," she said.

Independent

Half of the 400 known shark species are considered at threat of extinction.

The Guardian

Introduced in 1976, VHS, short for Video Home System, faced the threat of extinction from the start.

The New York Times

We are dealing with the threat of extinction of an important part of our heritage and it's a big responsibility".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing the "threat of extinction", be specific about what is at risk (e.g., a particular species, a cultural practice) to provide clear context and impact.

Common error

Do not use "threat of extinction" loosely; ensure there is evidence or data to support the claim, avoiding exaggeration or unsubstantiated statements.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "threat of extinction" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the object of a verb or the subject of a clause. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "threat of extinction" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to denote the risk or possibility of a species, group, or entity disappearing completely. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is correct and usable in written English. Analysis of its usage reveals it is most frequently found in news, scientific, and academic contexts, reflecting concerns about biodiversity loss and cultural preservation. While grammatically straightforward, it's important to use the phrase accurately, backing claims with evidence and avoiding overgeneralization. Alternatives like "risk of species loss" or "danger of becoming extinct" can provide nuanced emphasis, but the core meaning remains consistent: a call for awareness and action to prevent irreversible loss.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Risk of species loss

Focuses specifically on the loss of species, highlighting the biological aspect of extinction.

Danger of becoming extinct

Emphasizes the danger involved, suggesting a higher level of immediate concern.

Possibility of dying out

Uses more informal language to convey the idea of a species disappearing.

Impending extinction

Highlights the imminence of the extinction event, suggesting it is likely to happen soon.

On the brink of oblivion

Uses more figurative language to describe the state of being close to extinction.

Facing annihilation

Emphasizes the complete destruction and obliteration of a species or group.

Verge of disappearance

Highlights the nearness of the disappearance, often implying a quick or sudden decline.

Potential for obliteration

Focuses on the potential or possibility of complete destruction.

Endangered status

Refers to the official classification indicating a high risk of extinction.

Crisis of vanishing species

Emphasizes the crisis and broader issue of multiple species disappearing.

FAQs

What does "threat of extinction" mean?

The "threat of extinction" refers to the risk or possibility that a species, group, or entity may disappear completely from existence. It indicates a critical situation where survival is uncertain.

How is the phrase "threat of extinction" used in a sentence?

You can use "threat of extinction" in a sentence like this: "Many endangered species face the "threat of extinction" due to habitat loss and climate change."

What are some alternatives to "threat of extinction"?

Alternatives include "risk of species loss", "danger of becoming extinct", or "possibility of dying out" depending on the context.

What factors contribute to the "threat of extinction" for a species?

Factors contributing to the "threat of extinction" include habitat destruction, climate change, overhunting, pollution, and disease. These factors reduce population sizes and genetic diversity, making species more vulnerable.