with devastating consequences

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "with devastating consequences" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the severe negative outcomes resulting from an action or event. Example: "The decision to cut funding for the program was made hastily, and it led to devastating consequences for the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Cyberbullying may be perpetrated thoughtlessly, but with devastating consequences.

The Guardian - Opinion

Retirement plans have been shattered with devastating consequences".

The Guardian - Money

The fact that those weapons were used with devastating consequences... is undeniable.

The Guardian

If we don't, credit will dry up, with devastating consequences for our economy.

The New York Times

One is like a Category 5 hurricane with long odds on its occurring, but with devastating consequences if it does.

The New York Times - Health

But when the war is over, he is set adrift with devastating consequences for both of them.

The New York Times - Books

After the 1983 election we had a further 14 years of Tory rule with devastating consequences for millions of citizens.

The Guardian

More than 40% of under-fives in Pakistan have been stunted by malnutrition, with devastating consequences for their brain development.

The Guardian

"If India adopted the American doctrine of pre-emption, it risks a nuclear war, with devastating consequences for the world.

The New York Times

Thus it is no surprise that so few mortgages have been reworked, with devastating consequences for the economy.

The New York Times

"The 'invisible' force of the wind can lead to vehicles unexpectedly being knocked off course, sometimes with devastating consequences".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "with devastating consequences" to clearly and emphatically communicate the severity of negative outcomes, especially when the results are far-reaching and destructive. It helps to underscore the importance and urgency of addressing the root cause.

Common error

Avoid using "with devastating consequences" when the situation involves only minor inconveniences or easily resolved problems. Overusing the phrase can dilute its impact and make your writing sound hyperbolic. Instead, opt for milder expressions like "with unfortunate results" or "with negative effects".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "with devastating consequences" functions as an adverbial phrase that modifies a verb or clause, indicating the severity of the outcome resulting from a particular action or situation. Ludwig AI shows that is commonly used to emphasize the negative impact of an event.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "with devastating consequences" is a powerful adverbial phrase used to emphasize the severity of negative outcomes. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts, primarily in News & Media and Science. To avoid overuse, consider alternatives like "with severe repercussions" or "with catastrophic results". Use this phrase judiciously to maintain its impact and credibility. The phrase serves to highlight the gravity of a situation, urging attention or action.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with severe repercussions

Emphasizes the far-reaching and serious effects of an action.

with catastrophic results

Highlights the disastrous and overwhelming nature of the outcomes.

with ruinous outcomes

Focuses on the destructive and irreparable damage caused.

with tragic repercussions

Stresses the sorrowful and lamentable aspect of the resulting events.

with dire ramifications

Emphasizes the extremely serious and urgent nature of the consequences.

to disastrous effect

Highlights the failure and negative impact of an action.

leading to calamitous outcomes

Focuses on the event as a cause leading to disastrous results.

entailing grievous harm

Stresses the pain and suffering caused by the consequences.

with appalling sequelae

Emphasizes the shocking and disturbing nature of the aftereffects.

with grave implications

Highlights the serious and far-reaching significance of the consequences.

FAQs

How can I use "with devastating consequences" in a sentence?

You can use "with devastating consequences" to describe situations where an action or event leads to extremely negative outcomes. For example: "The lack of preparation led to a failed mission with devastating consequences."

What are some alternatives to "with devastating consequences"?

Alternatives include "with severe repercussions", "with catastrophic results", or "with ruinous outcomes" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "with devastating consequences"?

It's appropriate when describing situations where the negative outcomes are substantial, far-reaching, and potentially irreparable. Avoid using it for minor inconveniences or easily resolved issues.

What is the tone of "with devastating consequences"?

The tone is serious and emphatic, conveying a sense of urgency and severity. Using it can underscore the importance of the issue and the need for immediate action.