a case for concern

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a case for concern" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a situation or issue that raises worry or apprehension. Example: "The recent increase in pollution levels is a case for concern among environmentalists."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Even leaving the C.L.A. results aside, though, "Academically Adrift" makes a case for concern.

The New Yorker

And neither in life, nor in art, is this necessarily a case for concern.

The Guardian - Arts

Tariq Modood, professor of sociology, politics and public policy at the University of Bristol, agrees: "Some Muslim schools are a case for concern, but they've been making good progress".

The Guardian

Thromboembolism after WATCHMANTM in a clopidogrel non-responder: A case for concern?

Duke University

A case for concern After two of her infant children died within 30 minutes of birth, Lucky regularly consulted doctors when she became pregnant with Omi, who is now 3.

Unicef

The population's opportunity to be sedentary, rather than active, has increased, and children, adolescents and adults are spending more time in front of different screens than ever. 1 2 The negative health effects of sedentary behaviour are a case for concern, especially during childhood and adolescence, a vulnerable time of life.

BMJ Open

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

A cumulative case for concern has been building for months.

The Washington Post

The ruling describes a "substantial" case for concern about human-induced global warming that the EPA amassed.

The Washington Post

The concerns with BAPTA based dyes are well known and our extensive set of data provides a clear case for concern, especially, regarding SCN calcium dynamics.

Plosone

The problems with BAPTA based dyes are widely known and our study provides a clear case for concern, in particular, for SCN Ca2+ spikes.

Plosone

Describing Lugod's case as a cause for concern, Walker said: "A major change in our standard legal practice, and the structure of our criminal justice system, is required".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a case for concern", clearly articulate the specific reasons or evidence that support your assertion. Provide details that explain why the situation is worrisome and what potential consequences might arise.

Common error

Avoid using "a case for concern" when the situation is only mildly problematic. Reserve it for situations that genuinely present a significant risk or negative outcome. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a case for concern" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a situation or issue that warrants attention due to potential negative consequences. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it accurately conveys worry or apprehension.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

29%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a case for concern" is a valid and useful phrase for expressing worry about a particular situation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and appropriate usage. It's most commonly found in news, science, and formal business contexts, indicating its suitability for conveying potential problems. While alternatives like "a reason for worry" or "a cause for alarm" exist, the specific choice depends on the desired nuance and level of urgency. It's important to reserve this phrase for situations that genuinely warrant attention and not to overstate the level of alarm.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A reason for worry

Focuses directly on the feeling of worry, rather than the situation causing it. It's more personal and emotional.

A cause for alarm

Indicates a higher level of urgency and potential danger than "a case for concern".

A basis for apprehension

More formal and emphasizes anticipation of something negative.

Grounds for unease

Suggests a subtle feeling of discomfort or anxiety.

A justification for anxiety

Highlights the validity or reasonableness of feeling anxious.

A source of disquiet

Focuses on the origin of disturbance or unrest.

A matter of unease

Similar to grounds for unease but focuses more on the situation than the feeling.

A point of worry

Highlights a specific aspect or element that causes concern.

Something to be worried about

More direct and conversational, suitable for informal contexts.

A signal for vigilance

Shifts the focus to the need for alertness and careful observation.

FAQs

How can I use "a case for concern" in a sentence?

You can use "a case for concern" to indicate that a particular situation warrants attention and potential worry. For example, "The rising crime rates in the city are "a case for concern" among residents".

What phrases are similar to "a case for concern"?

Alternatives to "a case for concern" include phrases like "a reason for worry", "a cause for alarm", or "grounds for unease". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "a case for concern"?

It's appropriate to use "a case for concern" when you want to express that a specific situation or trend is potentially problematic and requires attention. It is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, depending on the surrounding language and tone.

What's the difference between "a case for concern" and "a cause for concern"?

While similar, "a case for concern" emphasizes the reasons why something should be worrying, whereas "a cause for concern" directly highlights the thing that is causing the worry. They are often interchangeable, but "a case for concern" may be used to present a detailed argument.