〜かねない: meaning and usage

How to form it

• verb (masu-stem)+かねない

How it is used

After the masu-stem: 'could well (lead to)…', warning of the risk of a bad outcome, with the speaker's worry or criticism. Used only for undesirable results. Close to 「〜恐れがある」, which sounds more detached.

Examples

1. そのドアに鍵を掛けないと泥棒が入りかねない。

   If you don't lock that door, a burglar might get in.

2. スピードを出しすぎると、事故を起こしかねない。

   Driving too fast could well cause an accident.

3. その言い方では、相手を怒らせかねないよ。

   Saying it like that could well make the other person angry.