What does “Recipe for disaster” mean?

"Recipe for disaster" means a situation or set of circumstances that is likely to result in a disaster or failure.

What context can I use the in?

Example

Mixing alcohol and driving is a recipe for disaster.

Example

Leaving your phone unattended in a crowded area is a recipe for disaster.

Example

Not studying for the exam is a recipe for disaster

Is “Recipe for disaster” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Recipe for disaster” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Recipe for disaster” effectively in context?

You can use "Recipe for Disaster" to describe a situation or set of circumstances that is likely to result in a disaster or failure. It emphasizes the idea that certain actions or decisions can lead to negative consequences. For example, if someone is considering drinking and driving, you might say, 'Mixing alcohol and driving is a recipe for disaster.'

1Safety
Leaving your phone unattended in a crowded area is a recipe for disaster.
2Academics
Not studying for the exam is a recipe for disaster.
3Planning
Rushing through the project without proper preparation is a recipe for disaster.

Similar phrases to “Recipe for disaster”:

Trainwreck waiting to happen

A situation or event that is likely to result in a disaster or failure

Example

Their lack of communication is a trainwreck waiting to happen.

Walking on thin ice

Being in a risky or dangerous situation

Example

His reckless behavior is like walking on thin ice.

Ticking time bomb

A situation or person that is likely to cause problems or explode in the future

Example

Their unresolved conflicts are a ticking time bomb.

Playing with fire

Engaging in risky or dangerous behavior

Example

Ignoring safety precautions is like playing with fire.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Recipe for disaster” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Recipe for Disaster" is unknown.

Is “Recipe for disaster” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Recipe for Disaster" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to warn others about potential dangers or to express the likelihood of failure in certain situations.

What tone does “Recipe for disaster” have?

"Recipe for Disaster" conveys a tone of caution and warning. It suggests that the outcome of a particular situation is highly unfavorable and should be avoided.

Can “Recipe for disaster” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Recipe for Disaster" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of a situation or set of circumstances that is likely to result in a disaster or failure. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'Leaving your car unlocked in a high-crime area is a recipe for disaster.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'That's a recipe for disaster!' to imply the potential negative outcome of a situation.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

disaster waiting to happen
surefire way to fail
guaranteed recipe for failure
path to destruction
set-up for disaster

Antonyms

recipe for success
path to victory
surefire way to succeed
guaranteed recipe for achievement
formula for triumph