alarmed at how

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "alarmed at how" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing concern or shock about a particular situation or behavior. Example: "I was alarmed at how quickly the situation escalated during the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

Alarmed at how Florida destroyed rather than created wealth, King Philip II banned further expeditions.

The New York Times

Alarmed at how sweeping the legislation became, the tobacco industry then spent tens of millions of dollars to kill it.

The New York Times

She also became alarmed at how quiet and still her husband became in between the bouts of loud snoring.

The Guardian

When I got my first statement, I was alarmed at how much interest it amassed in one year.

The Guardian

But, writes Lisa Guernsey, "I'm alarmed at how the minutes can turn into hours if I'm not there to tell my kids to take a break.

The New York Times

Both aspiring and tenured professors are alarmed at how the ranks of unprotected, underpaid adjuncts have grown over the past two decades.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

Alarmed at just how divisive politics in Tower Hamlets has become,  Professor Keith – now Director of the Centre on Migration, Policy and Society at Oxford – fears for the future of the East End.

Independent

I've always been impressed, well alarmed really, at how quickly the right wing jumps on an issue almost in unison.

The New York Times

I was a bit alarmed at this point, but I knew how to handle the situation.

Huffington Post

I became alarmed at the rate of harvesting and how illegal poachers came not just for fish.

Huffington Post

Having caused a furor with the Pompidou Center in his 30's, Mr. Piano now looks back with some alarm at how little he knew at the time.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "alarmed at how" to express a strong feeling of concern or shock, typically in response to an unexpected or negative development. Ensure the context clearly indicates what is causing the alarm.

Common error

While "alarmed at how" is generally acceptable, avoid overuse in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more neutral or precise language to maintain objectivity and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "alarmed at how" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a subject, expressing a feeling of concern or shock. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English, indicating its role in conveying subjective reactions to observed situations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Formal & Business

3%

Science

2%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "alarmed at how" is a common and grammatically correct way to express concern or shock regarding a specific situation. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is readily usable in written English. Predominantly found in News & Media contexts, the phrase serves to convey a negative emotional response to unexpected or undesirable events. While its usage is acceptable, it's important to consider more neutral options in highly formal writing. Alternatives such as "concerned at how" or "worried at how" can offer a milder tone. Overall, "alarmed at how" effectively communicates a feeling of unease or surprise.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

worried at how

Expresses concern rather than shock, indicating a milder emotional response.

concerned at how

Similar to "worried at how", expressing unease about the situation.

intimidated at how

Suggests feeling overwhelmed or fearful due to the manner in which something is done.

scared at how

Implies a stronger sense of fear or apprehension about the process or outcome.

appalled at how

Conveys a sense of disgust or moral outrage related to the manner of execution.

startled at how

Indicates a sudden surprise or shock at the way something happened.

dismayed at how

Suggests disappointment and discouragement regarding the way something happened.

disconcerted at how

Suggests feeling unsettled or confused by the manner in which something happened.

surprised at how

Expresses astonishment rather than worry, focusing on the unexpected nature of the action.

amazed at how

Indicates wonder or admiration instead of concern.

FAQs

How can I use "alarmed at how" in a sentence?

Use "alarmed at how" to express concern or shock about a situation. For example, "I was alarmed at how quickly the company's profits declined."

What can I say instead of "alarmed at how"?

You can use alternatives like "concerned at how", "worried at how", or "surprised at how" depending on the specific context and the emotion you want to convey.

Is it better to say "alarmed by how" or "alarmed at how"?

Both "alarmed by how" and "alarmed at how" are grammatically correct and can be used interchangeably. The choice often depends on personal preference or the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "alarmed at how" and "concerned about how"?

"Alarmed at how" suggests a stronger, more immediate sense of shock or fear, while "concerned about how" implies a more moderate level of worry or unease. The best choice depends on the intensity of the emotion you wish to express.