alarming problem

USAGE SUMMARY

"alarming problem" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use this phrase to refer to any problem that causes alarm or fear, such as a global pandemic or climate change. For example: "The rise of COVID-19 has created an alarming problem across the world."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

It's quite an alarming problem that's likely to get worse".

The Guardian

In a further alarming problem, the security protections on many of the older machines are inadequate, leaving them vulnerable to hacker attacks.

The Guardian

A particularly alarming problem is the inability to track 174,679 firearms reported missing or stolen from gun dealers' inventories from 2004 through 2011, a lucrative channel into the black market that should be a red flag about unscrupulous dealers.

The New York Times

An alarming problem was the attack on firefighters with bricks and other weapons, by residents who saw the presence of the mostly white firefighters as an intrusion, as they battled fires in black and Hispanic neighborhoods.

The New York Times

But doctors say the cumulative effect is obvious from China's alarming problem with hepatitis B. Hepatitis B causes pain, nausea and fatigue and can become a chronic infection, leading to liver failure or cancer of the organ.

The New York Times

Conclusion: The spread of CPE is an alarming problem in our center.

Annals of Intensive Care

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

The alarming problems of Pakistan, Yemen and so many other places threaten to feed more violence.

The Economist

I call the doctor; we reason that some of the alarming problems are normal because of her medical history.

The Guardian

But the alliance cites a long list of alarming problems that it says can stem from computer use by young children: "Repetitive stress injuries, eyestrain, obesity, social isolation and, for some, long-term damage to physical, emotional or intellectual development".

The New York Times - Tech

President Bush has rightly called attention to one of the world's most alarming problems, the quickening spread of nuclear weapons technology, but proposes a disappointingly limited series of responses.

The New York Times

Such bizarre notions, combined with a perfunctory assessment of the ways in which America can combat obesity, distract attention from the very real and alarming problems, discussed in this otherwise absorbing volume, of living large.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "alarming problem", ensure that the context clearly demonstrates why the problem is causing alarm. Provide specific details or consequences to underscore the severity.

Common error

Avoid using "alarming problem" as a generic descriptor. Instead, specify the exact nature of the problem and its potential consequences to maintain clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "alarming problem" functions as a descriptor, where the adjective "alarming" modifies the noun "problem". This combination serves to emphasize the severity and urgency of the issue being discussed, as evidenced by its presence in numerous examples within Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

52%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "alarming problem" effectively conveys a sense of urgency and concern, frequently appearing in news, scientific, and business contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. To enhance clarity, provide specific details about the issue's severity. Alternatives include "serious concern", "troubling matter", and "grave situation". Remember to use it judiciously and provide sufficient context to underscore the significance of the problem.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

worrisome issue

Replaces "problem" with "issue" and "alarming" with the less intense "worrisome".

troubling matter

Substitutes both words for synonyms that imply concern and difficulty.

serious concern

Emphasizes the gravity of the situation by using "serious" and framing it as a "concern".

grave situation

Highlights the severe nature of the issue using "grave" to replace "alarming" and "situation" instead of "problem".

disturbing trend

Focuses on the pattern or progression of the problem, highlighting its unsettling nature.

critical challenge

Presents the problem as a significant obstacle that needs immediate attention.

pressing issue

Indicates that the problem requires urgent action due to its immediate impact.

significant threat

Frames the problem as a potential danger, emphasizing its capacity to cause harm.

urgent crisis

Elevates the problem to the level of a crisis, suggesting a state of emergency.

worrying development

Highlights the evolving and concerning nature of the problem.

FAQs

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

You can use "alarming problem" to describe any issue that causes significant concern or fear. For example, "The increasing rate of deforestation is an "alarming problem" for environmentalists."

What are some alternatives to saying "alarming problem"?

Depending on the specific nuance you want to convey, you can use alternatives like "serious concern", "troubling matter", or "grave situation".

Is it more appropriate to say "alarming problem" or "worrisome problem"?

"Alarming problem" suggests a greater level of immediate threat and concern than "worrisome problem". Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the severity of the issue.

What makes a problem "alarming"?

A problem is considered "alarming" when it poses a significant risk, has severe potential consequences, and causes widespread fear or concern. It often implies a sense of urgency and the need for immediate action.