with dire consequences

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "with dire consequences" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to describe an event or situation that may have serious, usually negative, results. For example, "Skipping school can often lead to dangerous situations with dire consequences."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It comes with dire consequences.

The New York Times

(She also breaks the no-smiling rule, with dire consequences).

The New York Times

Kathryn recklessly promises Raya protection if she agrees to talk, with dire consequences.

The New York Times

Mussolini emulated it for twenty years, with dire consequences for the country.

The New Yorker

Anything that changes the earth's albedo changes how much energy the planet absorbs, with dire consequences.

The New Yorker

The lawsuit alleges MacIntrye was threatened with "dire consequences" if he did not remain quiet.

The Guardian

Small alternative energy producers had not been paid at all for months, with dire consequences.

The New York Times

Hindu nationalists demanded she be tried for sedition.So Kashmir is left to smoulder, with dire consequences for its citizens.

The Economist

Without reinvention, the crisis will deepen with dire consequences for everyone, especially those of us trapped in traffic-choked cities.

The New York Times - Arts

Like bacteria in a petri dish, our exploding numbers are reaching the limits of a finite planet, with dire consequences.

The New York Times

Modi even took on the Election Commission, threatening them with dire consequences for preventing his rally in Varanasi.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To enhance clarity, follow "with dire consequences" with a brief explanation of what those consequences entail. This provides context and reinforces the seriousness of the situation.

Common error

Avoid using "with dire consequences" in casual conversation or informal writing. The phrase carries a significant weight and is more appropriate for formal or serious discussions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "with dire consequences" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb or clause. It describes the potential outcome of an action or situation, emphasizing the severity and negativity of the consequences. Ludwig AI confirms this widespread and correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "with dire consequences" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to emphasize the extremely negative outcomes of a situation. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and widely used in written English. Its primary function is to warn or caution, often found in contexts such as News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business. While generally formal, understanding the appropriate contexts for its use can greatly enhance clarity and impact. Remember to avoid overuse in informal settings and clearly explain what the dire consequences entail to maximize its effectiveness. Given the broad range of sources where this phrase appears, mastering its usage is beneficial for clear and impactful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with severe repercussions

Focuses on the negative effects that rebound or result from an action.

with grave outcomes

Emphasizes the seriousness and potential negativity of the results.

with serious ramifications

Highlights the far-reaching and complex nature of the negative effects.

with terrible results

Directly points out the poor and undesirable nature of the outcome.

with unfortunate sequelae

Uses a more formal tone to refer to the after-effects or consequences that are undesirable.

with calamitous effects

Stresses the disastrous and catastrophic nature of the impacts.

with adverse impacts

Highlights the negative and harmful effects produced.

with damaging effects

Focuses on the harm and injury caused as a result.

with ill effects

A simple and direct way of stating that the consequences are bad or unhealthy.

at great cost

Emphasizes the significant sacrifice or loss involved as a consequence.

FAQs

How to use "with dire consequences" in a sentence?

Use "with dire consequences" to emphasize that certain actions or events could lead to extremely negative outcomes. For example, "Ignoring safety regulations could lead to accidents "with dire consequences"."

What can I say instead of "with dire consequences"?

You can use alternatives like "with severe repercussions", "with grave outcomes", or "with serious ramifications" depending on the specific context.

What does "with dire consequences" mean?

"With dire consequences" means that something could have extremely serious and negative results. It suggests that the stakes are high and the potential outcomes are very bad.

Is "with dire consequences" a formal expression?

Yes, "with dire consequences" is considered a relatively formal expression. It's more suited for serious or professional contexts rather than casual conversation.