alarming intelligence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "alarming intelligence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe information or insights that are concerning or troubling in nature. Example: "The alarming intelligence gathered from the field indicated a significant rise in hostilities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Another strong opponent in the fall, Ms. Rice, had also shifted her position, partly because of the alarming intelligence about the state of the rebellion.

The New York Times

There was Attorney General John Ashcroft last week warning America of alarming intelligence that "indicates Al Qaeda's specific intention to hit the United States hard".

The New York Times

The origins of this dilemma can be traced in large part to a weekend last August, when alarming intelligence reports suggested the besieged Syrian government might be preparing to use chemical weapons.

The New York Times

Most notably, he describes the alarming intelligence he presented to National Security Adviser Condoleezza Rice at a July 10 , 2001 meeting — including information from late June of that year that predicted a "big event" was coming.

The New York Times - Books

They also had been given alarming intelligence reports, which they believed were accurate, showing that Saddam Hussein was stockpiling biological and chemical weapons and at least attempting to develop nuclear bombs.

The New York Times

In the estimate's declassified version, possibles became probables, and caveats were cut, as scraps of potentially alarming intelligence emerged as terrifying facts.They were being instructed to make that case fully and publicly, and suddenly it didn't look quite such a "slam-dunk"Numerous qualifiers—"we judge that", "most analysts believe that"—were excised.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

There was a striking absence of any recent and alarming firm intelligence.

The New York Times

WASHINGTON — While American spy agencies have believed that the Iranians halted efforts to build a nuclear bomb back in 2003, the difficulty in assessing the government's ambitions was evident two years ago, when what appeared to be alarming new intelligence emerged, according to current and former United States officials.

The New York Times

0.40am: Alarming news.

The Guardian - Film

Alarming news of Justice Dept.

The New Yorker

This was alarming news.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "alarming intelligence" when conveying a sense of urgency and potential danger. This phrase is particularly effective in security, political, and health-related contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "alarming intelligence" when the information is merely surprising or unexpected, not genuinely threatening. Overuse can diminish the phrase's impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "alarming intelligence" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "alarming" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "intelligence". According to Ludwig, this phrase is used to describe pieces of information that cause concern or signal potential danger.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "alarming intelligence" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe concerning or threatening information. As highlighted by Ludwig, it is most frequently found in news and media contexts, conveying a sense of urgency. While suitable for formal and professional use, writers should ensure the context justifies the alarm to avoid diminishing its impact. Alternatives such as "disturbing information" or "concerning reports" may be appropriate depending on the specific nuance intended.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

disturbing information

Focuses on the unsettling nature of the information.

worrisome data

Highlights the concern that the data evokes.

concerning reports

Emphasizes the troubling nature of the reports.

serious threat assessment

Emphasizes the severe potential outcomes suggested by the intelligence.

critical information

Highlights the importance and urgency of the information.

urgent security briefing

Specifies the context as a security-related update.

grave warnings

Focuses on the severe implications of the warnings.

dire predictions

Highlights the bleak outlook suggested by the intelligence.

ominous indicators

Emphasizes the foreboding nature of the signs.

troubling insights

Focuses on the disturbing nature of the insights gained.

FAQs

How can I use "alarming intelligence" in a sentence?

You can use "alarming intelligence" to describe reports, findings, or briefings that suggest a serious threat or danger. For example: "The "alarming intelligence" suggested an imminent attack."

What are some alternatives to "alarming intelligence"?

Some alternatives include "disturbing information", "worrisome data", or "concerning reports", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "alarming intelligence" in formal writing?

Yes, "alarming intelligence" is suitable for formal writing, particularly in reports, briefings, and analyses concerning security, politics, or health.

What distinguishes "alarming intelligence" from "concerning information"?

"Alarming intelligence" typically implies a higher level of urgency and potential danger than "concerning information", suggesting an imminent threat or serious risk.