a worrying pattern

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a worrying pattern" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a trend or behavior that causes concern or anxiety. Example: "The recent increase in cyberbullying incidents among teenagers is a worrying pattern that needs to be addressed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

Local officials said the recent developments reflected a worrying pattern.

The New York Times

There is a worrying pattern here: a lack of openness and transparency in British Cycling.

The Guardian - Sport

Your sleeping, eating and exercise habits have improved, but you've noticed a worrying pattern.

The Guardian

But it was received badly because it seemed to confirm a worrying pattern of overshoots.

The Economist

It is part of a worrying pattern of behaviour of this government because their majority is so small.

The Guardian

Whatever the merits of these individual cases, there's a worrying pattern here with both free schools and academies.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

Besides a dramatic increase in attacks on journalists, recent developments show a more worrying pattern of behavior on the part of the media attackers.

Huffington Post

There is also a deeply worrying pattern that it is the lowest paid, the disabled and black and minority ethnic Londoners who are being hit hardest by the cost of living crisis.

The Guardian

"We are seeing a very worrying pattern in China that has serious implications for civil society and the important work they do across the country," said Zeid. "Civil society actors, from lawyers and journalists to NGO workers, have the right to carry out their work, and it is the State's duty to support and protect them".

Vice

Morgan warned of an "extremely worrying" pattern in which non-Conservatives are losing their positions from senior public bodies.

The Guardian

The 43% is a worrying figure.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a worrying pattern", clearly specify what constitutes the pattern and why it is concerning. Providing concrete examples strengthens your argument and enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a worrying pattern" to describe isolated incidents. Ensure there is a discernible and recurring sequence of events to justify the claim, otherwise, the assertion may lack credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a worrying pattern" functions as a noun phrase, specifically acting as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies and characterizes a recurring sequence or trend that elicits concern, as evidenced by examples in Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Formal & Business

14%

Science

9%

Less common in

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a worrying pattern" is a noun phrase used to express concern about a recurring sequence of events or behaviors. As highlighted by Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically sound and commonly found in news media, formal business communications, and scientific reports. When employing this phrase, ensure you clearly define the pattern and its concerning aspects, supported by evidence. While alternatives like "a troubling pattern" or "a concerning trend" exist, "a worrying pattern" provides a direct and effective way to convey unease about an observed trend.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a troubling pattern

Replaces "worrying" with "troubling", suggesting something that causes distress or anxiety.

a worrisome development

Swaps "worrying" with "worrisome", maintaining the same level of concern but with a slightly different tone.

a concerning trend

Substitutes "pattern" with "trend", indicating a general direction or tendency, while "concerning" highlights the element of worry.

an alarming trend

Uses "alarming" to emphasize a greater sense of danger or urgency compared to "worrying".

a disturbing development

Replaces "pattern" with "development", suggesting a significant unfolding event that is unsettling.

a disquieting trend

Uses "disquieting" suggesting something that causes anxiety or unease.

a frightening trend

Replaces "worrying" with "frightening", indicating a trend that inspires fear.

a serious pattern

Highlights the gravity of the situation, emphasizing that the pattern is not just a minor concern.

a dangerous trend

Indicates that the pattern poses a potential threat or risk.

a negative trajectory

Replaces "pattern" with "trajectory", focusing on the direction something is moving and framing it as negative.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "a worrying pattern" in a sentence?

To effectively use "a worrying pattern", clearly identify the specific trend or behavior you are referencing and explain why it is concerning. For example, "The increasing number of late submissions indicates "a worrying pattern" of poor time management among students."

What are some alternatives to saying "a worrying pattern"?

You can use alternatives such as "a troubling pattern", "a concerning trend", or "an alarming trend" depending on the context and the level of concern you wish to convey.

Is there a difference between "a worrying pattern" and "a worrying trend"?

While similar, "pattern" suggests a sequence of events or behaviors, whereas "trend" implies a general direction or tendency. You might use ""a worrying pattern"" when referring to specific repeated actions and "a worrying trend" when describing a broader shift or development.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a worrying pattern"?

It's appropriate to use "a worrying pattern" when you observe a series of related events or behaviors that raise concerns or suggest potential negative consequences. Ensure you have sufficient evidence to support your claim before using this phrase.