a worrying gap

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a worrying gap" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant difference or deficiency that causes concern in various contexts, such as research, statistics, or social issues. Example: "The recent study revealed a worrying gap in the educational achievements between different socioeconomic groups."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

There is a gap, and it is a worrying gap," Ms Primarolo said.

Independent

Such a "safe-harbour" compromise was supposed to have been reached by negotiators meeting in December, but there is still a worrying gap between the two sides and the clock is ticking.

The Economist

But didn't the jury's question hint that it did not really understand the original instructions?Linguistic scientists now claim that there is a worrying gap between the language of the American public and that of the legal profession.

The Economist

But it could be up to 20 years before that day has fully arrived, a worrying gap after the time when the current lot of weapons become obsolete.What to do?

The Economist

He says that his tax reforms will be revenue-neutral, because he will sweep away exemptions to offset the cost of his cuts, of around $500 billion a year.In principle, this is laudable; but there is a worrying gap in Mr Ryan's plan.

The Economist

There is a worrying gap between the European Union and its citizens.

EU Parlament

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Low pay still experienced by women is a contributing factor towards the worrying gap between how much men and women save for retirement.

The Guardian - Money

"As I look at the church today the most urgent and worrying gap is in young people's work," he said.

Independent

Media comment that the search for the missing Malaysian airliner which disappeared nearly a fortnight ago has exposed worrying gaps in China's defence capabilities.

BBC

In contrast the portrait of Catherine seemed crude to the museum's curator Louisa Price, and worrying gaps in its provenance also emerged when a catalogue of all the museum's paintings was being compiled this year.

The Guardian - Books

If this is true, it suggests there are worrying gaps in our ability to respond".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a worrying gap", ensure you clearly define what constitutes the gap and why it is concerning. Providing specific details and context will strengthen your argument and resonate more effectively with your audience.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the consequences of "a worrying gap" without sufficient data or logical reasoning. Overly dramatic claims can undermine your credibility and weaken your message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a worrying gap" functions as a noun phrase, where "worrying" acts as a present participle adjective modifying the noun "gap". This phrase highlights a deficiency or discrepancy that causes concern. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a worrying gap" effectively conveys concern about a significant discrepancy or deficiency. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in written English. It is commonly used in News & Media and Science contexts to highlight issues needing attention. While the phrase is versatile, remember to provide specific details about the nature and consequences of the gap to strengthen your message. Consider alternatives like "a concerning disparity" or "a troubling difference" to vary your language. By understanding its nuances and potential pitfalls, you can use "a worrying gap" to express concern with clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a concerning disparity

Replaces "worrying" with a more neutral adjective, while retaining the sense of a significant and potentially problematic difference.

a troubling difference

Substitutes both "worrying" and "gap" to emphasize the problematic nature of the difference.

a significant deficiency

Replaces "gap" with a term that highlights a lack or shortage, maintaining the negative connotation.

an alarming deficit

Uses stronger language to emphasize the severity of the shortage or lack.

a cause for concern

Shifts the focus from the gap itself to the feeling of unease it provokes.

a matter of apprehension

Emphasizes the anxiety and worry associated with the issue.

a reason for unease

Highlights the discomfort and disquiet caused by the situation.

a source of anxiety

Focuses on the emotional impact of the identified issue.

a noteworthy inadequacy

Emphasizes the insufficiency and its importance.

a critical shortcoming

Highlights the severity of the failing or defect.

FAQs

How can I effectively describe "a worrying gap" in my writing?

Provide specific details about the nature and scope of the gap. Explain why it is concerning and what potential consequences it may have. Use credible sources to support your claims.

What are some alternatives to the phrase "a worrying gap"?

You can use alternatives like "a concerning disparity", "a troubling difference", or "a significant deficiency" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "a worrying gap" in formal writing?

Yes, "a worrying gap" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when discussing issues in research, statistics, or social sciences. It clearly conveys concern about a significant difference or deficiency.

How does the connotation of "a worrying gap" differ from "a simple difference"?

"A worrying gap" implies a negative evaluation of the difference, suggesting that it is problematic or undesirable. In contrast, "a simple difference" is neutral and does not necessarily indicate a cause for concern.