volatile situation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "volatile situation" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is used to describe a situation that could change suddenly and unexpectedly. Example: The stock market is a volatile situation and investors should be prepared for any unexpected changes.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's a very volatile situation".

The New York Times

"It was a volatile situation.

The Guardian

"This is a very volatile situation.

The Guardian

Into this volatile situation stepped Cardinal Burke.

The New York Times

Pakistan's internal crisis makes the volatile situation worse.

The New York Times

They're treating the volatile situation with their usual withering superiority.

Independent

They are setting up a highly volatile situation.

The Guardian

"Let's just say it was a volatile situation".

The New York Times

"This is a highly volatile situation," said the Israeli official.

The Guardian

Of course, he walked into a highly volatile situation.

The New York Times

We have a potentially volatile situation, but we sort of live with it.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a "volatile situation", be specific about the factors contributing to its instability. This adds clarity and impact to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "volatile situation" when describing a mildly fluctuating scenario. Reserve it for circumstances with a genuine risk of sudden and significant change.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "volatile situation" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "volatile" modifies the noun "situation". It describes a particular state or condition, and according to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Science

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "volatile situation" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe circumstances characterized by instability and unpredictability. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though often found in News & Media and academic writing. When using the phrase, be mindful of its intensity, reserving it for scenarios with a genuine risk of sudden change. Consider alternatives like "unstable situation" or "precarious situation" to fine-tune the specific nuance of your writing. With over 50 examples found by Ludwig, this phrase is clearly established in contemporary English usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unstable situation

Focuses on the lack of stability in the circumstances.

precarious situation

Emphasizes the uncertainty and potential danger of the situation.

tense situation

Highlights the stress and potential for conflict.

unpredictable situation

Focuses on the inability to foresee future developments.

explosive situation

Suggests a high risk of sudden and violent escalation.

sensitive situation

Emphasizes the need for careful handling to avoid negative consequences.

crisis situation

Implies a critical point requiring immediate action.

delicate situation

Highlights the fragility and potential for disruption.

fluid situation

Focuses on the constantly changing nature of the circumstances.

charged atmosphere

Describes an environment filled with tension and emotion.

FAQs

How can I use "volatile situation" in a sentence?

You can use "volatile situation" to describe scenarios characterized by instability and unpredictable changes. For instance: "The political climate is currently a "volatile situation"".

What are some alternatives to "volatile situation"?

Alternatives include "unstable situation", "precarious situation", or "tense situation". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "volatile situation" in formal writing?

Yes, "volatile situation" is appropriate for formal writing. It is used in news reports and academic papers. However, consider if a more precise term would be more effective.

What makes a situation "volatile"?

A situation is "volatile" when it is subject to sudden and unpredictable changes, often with the potential for negative consequences. Key indicators include instability, uncertainty, and high emotional tension.