Looks alarming

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Looks alarming" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that appears to be concerning or troubling, often in a visual context. Example: "The sudden drop in temperature looks alarming, and we should investigate the cause."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

The problem is not presentation, though Mr Serra looks dull except when he smiles, when he looks alarming.

The Economist

What happens is that a stranger, maybe a passer-by in the playground, witnesses a scene between adult and child that looks alarming.

The New York Times

Lebanon's mainstream TV landscape looks alarming similar to that of most countries around the world at this point, ie some combination of X Factor and Dancing With The Stars.

The Guardian

Yellow, gray or orange slime mold growing in wet, decaying organic matter looks alarming, but just shovel it up and discard it.

The New York Times - Style

What canny dealers might say to each other in the privacy of a shared espresso looks alarming when posted on a web site for all the world to read.

The Economist

Screamingly neon purple, but in a really great way. 4 stars Autograph Anti-Feathering Lipstick Deep Purple £9.50, M&S, 0845 302 1234 Looks alarming but actually not too scary as it comes out quite sheer.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

My boyfriend looks alarmed.

The Guardian - Opinion

McClure looks alarmed.

Independent

The boy looks alarmed.

The New York Times

My wife looks alarmed.

The New York Times

She looks alarmed.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "Looks alarming", ensure the context provides a clear subject that is doing the "looking". For instance, "The financial forecast looks alarming." This clarity enhances the impact of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "Looks alarming" with overly abstract or vague subjects. For example, instead of saying "The situation looks alarming" without further context, specify what aspect of the situation is alarming, like "The rate of infection looks alarming".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Looks alarming" functions as a descriptive verb phrase. It combines a linking verb ("looks") with an adjective ("alarming") to attribute a concerning quality to a subject. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is correct and usable. This phrase is used to express a visual impression of something being worrying or dangerous.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Looks alarming" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe something that appears concerning or dangerous. While it is considered correct by Ludwig AI, it is a relatively rare expression, primarily found in news and media contexts. When using the phrase, ensure the subject is clearly defined to maximize its impact. More formal alternatives, like "appears concerning", may be preferable in academic or professional settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Is a cause for alarm

Replaces the verb "looks" with "is" and changes the sentence structure while maintaining the core meaning.

Appears concerning

Replaces the verb "looks" with "appears" and "alarming" with "concerning", offering a slightly more formal tone.

Seems worrisome

Uses "seems" instead of "looks" and "worrisome" in place of "alarming", conveying a similar meaning with different vocabulary.

Sparks concern

Emphasizes the immediate reaction of concern, using a more active verb ("sparks") to indicate the initiation of worry.

Gives cause for concern

Employs a more descriptive phrase, highlighting the potential for worry rather than a direct visual assessment.

Presents a worrying picture

Focuses on the overall impression or "picture" created, emphasizing the element of worry or concern.

Raises red flags

Idiomatic expression indicating a potential problem or danger, moving away from the literal "look" but keeping the urgency.

Inspires apprehension

Highlights the feeling of unease or anxiety that the situation creates, shifting the focus to the emotional response.

Portends trouble

A more formal and slightly archaic phrase suggesting that something bad is likely to happen.

Suggests a potential problem

A more neutral and less emotive expression, focusing on the possibility of an issue rather than a strong sense of alarm.

FAQs

How can I use "Looks alarming" in a sentence?

Use "Looks alarming" to describe something that appears to be a cause for concern or worry. For instance, "The patient's test results "look alarming", requiring immediate attention."

What's a less dramatic alternative to "Looks alarming"?

Alternatives such as "seems concerning", "appears worrisome", or "suggests a potential problem" can be used when a milder tone is desired.

Is it always negative when something "Looks alarming"?

Yes, the phrase "Looks alarming" typically carries a negative connotation, indicating that something appears to be problematic, dangerous, or of serious concern. It suggests a situation that warrants attention and potential action.

Can "Looks alarming" be used in formal writing?

While "Looks alarming" is generally acceptable, more formal alternatives like "appears concerning" or "presents a worrying picture" might be preferred in academic or professional contexts to maintain a higher level of formality.