a source of apprehension

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a source of apprehension" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that causes feelings of anxiety or worry. Example: "The sudden changes in the company's management structure became a source of apprehension among the employees."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

That endless round of activity was a source of apprehension to friends and family.

The Guardian

Students, though, say it's an "inappropriate and potentially harmful addition to our community," and that the Sleepwalker "has become a source of apprehension, fear, and triggering thoughts regarding sexual assault".

The Guardian - Opinion

"This highly lifelike sculpture has, within just a few hours of its outdoor installation, become a source of apprehension, fear, and triggering thoughts regarding sexual assault for many members of our campus community," wrote Lauren Walsh, a Wellesley senior.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

It's also a source of considerable apprehension, since in late-late adolescence the party boys are still incomplete.

The New York Times - Arts

The lack of awareness of the radiology community about these regulations may also be a source of inadequate apprehension of the fundamental guidelines in adopting teleradiology in clinical practice.

Insights into Imaging

Moreover, the issue of off-target effects still looms large as a source of considerable apprehension about the use of CRISPR/Cas9 for genome editing in humans.

Cell and Bioscience

While there's no chapter in Justice Breyer's book called "Legitimacy: Why I'm Worried," The New Yorker's Jeffrey Toobin points to the judicial activism of Chief Justice John Roberts and the conservative majority as a major source of apprehension for Justice Breyer.

The New York Times

Even in the absence of a diagnosable disorder of cognition (e.g., AD and MCI), the perception of increased forgetfulness and declining mental function is a clear source of apprehension in the elderly.

Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior

The major source of apprehension among some of Reagan's advisers is the economy.

The New Yorker

The greatest source of apprehension, however, remains fear of the genetic defects that might affect future generations.

Unicef

Their apprehension, that higher class clients (a source of major income to them) may dislike visiting their facility alongside CY patients, discouraged their participation in the scheme.

BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a source of apprehension" to describe something that is causing ongoing worry or anxiety. It suggests a sustained feeling rather than a fleeting moment of fear.

Common error

Avoid using "a source of apprehension" for minor inconveniences or trivial worries. It is best suited for situations involving significant anxiety or concern, not everyday frustrations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a source of apprehension" functions as a noun phrase that identifies something causing anxiety or worry. It typically acts as the subject complement or object in a sentence, specifying the origin of unease. Ludwig confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a source of apprehension" is a noun phrase used to describe something that causes anxiety or worry. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and suitable for use in various contexts, though more common in neutral to formal settings such as news media, science, and formal business communications. While its overall frequency is relatively rare, it effectively communicates the origin of unease. Remember to use it when describing significant anxiety, not trivial matters. Alternatives like "a cause for concern" or "a reason for worry" can be used to express similar ideas with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a reason for concern

Highlights the justification for worry or unease.

a matter of anxiety

Emphasizes the psychological state of worry or nervousness.

a cause for alarm

Focuses more on the feeling of immediate danger or threat.

a basis for disquiet

Suggests a subtle or underlying feeling of unease.

a trigger for worry

Highlights the initiating factor for concern.

a wellspring of unease

Implies a continuous and abundant source of discomfort.

grounds for foreboding

Focuses on a sense of impending doom or misfortune.

an origin of trepidation

Emphasizes a feeling of fear or agitation about something that might happen.

a root of nervousness

Highlights the fundamental cause of feeling anxious or edgy.

a font of misgivings

Implies a constant flow of doubts or reservations.

FAQs

How can I use "a source of apprehension" in a sentence?

You can use "a source of apprehension" to describe something that causes worry or anxiety. For example, "The lack of clear communication from the management was "a source of apprehension" for the employees".

What are some alternatives to "a source of apprehension"?

Alternatives include "a cause for concern", "a reason for worry", or "a matter of anxiety", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "a source of apprehension" or "a cause for concern"?

Both phrases are correct, but "a source of apprehension" implies a sustained feeling of anxiety, whereas "a cause for concern" might refer to a specific incident that is worrying.

Can "a source of apprehension" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "a source of apprehension" is suitable for formal writing, particularly in news reports, academic papers, and business communications. The level of formality depends on the context.