alarming situation

USAGE SUMMARY

"alarming situation" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to describe a situation that is dangerous or causes feelings of alarm or apprehension. For example: "The situation in the Middle East is an increasingly alarming situation due to the rise of terrorism in the region."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The explanation for this amazing — and alarming — situation is as much cultural as economic.

The New Yorker

After a meeting in Brussels yesterday, the EU foreign ministers released a statement expressing concern about the "alarming" situation in the CAR.

Independent

In terms of micronutrients, the substantial reduction of calcium intake exacerbates an already alarming situation.

Agricultural and Food Economics

Fiscal austerity and tough labour reforms have failed to create jobs, leading to an "alarming" situation in the global employment market that shows no sign of recovering, the International Labour Organization said on Sunday.

Huffington Post

"This latest incident is a tragic development in an already alarming situation.

Unicef

The current vancomycin resistant staphylococci in hospital as well as in community are alarming situation to the clinicians.

BMC Infectious Diseases

An already alarming situation in Gaza, with poverty rates at nearly eighty per cent and unemployment at nearly forty per cent, is likely to deteriorate rapidly, unless immediate and urgent action is taken.

Unicef

Nutrition security in Gao: An Alarming Situation BAMAKO, 23 July 2013 – The humanitarian community is raising the alarm on the rates of acute malnutrition in Gao, Northern Mali.

Unicef

"Sometimes an alarming situation can breed interest, and get you on the path".

The New Yorker

"It's a slightly alarming situation to see more and more galleries on museum credit lines," said Brett Littman, director of the Drawing Center in New York.

The New York Times - Arts

In November, 2011, some employees at the Clinton Foundation told Chelsea Clinton about an alarming situation in what she has called "my father's world".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "alarming situation", be specific about what makes the situation alarming. Provide concrete details or evidence to support your assessment.

Common error

Avoid using "alarming situation" as a vague descriptor. Instead of simply stating that a situation is alarming, explain the specific risks, consequences, or warning signs that justify the assessment. For example, instead of saying "The budget deficit presents an alarming situation", specify "The budget deficit, with projected cuts to essential services, presents an alarming situation for vulnerable populations."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "alarming situation" functions as a noun phrase, where "alarming" modifies the noun "situation". It is used to describe a state of affairs that is considered dangerous, worrying, or concerning, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "alarming situation" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a concerning or dangerous state of affairs. As highlighted by Ludwig, it functions as a noun phrase and is used to express worry or call attention to a potential threat. The phrase appears frequently across news, scientific, and business contexts, indicating a neutral register. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is well-established and usable in various writing scenarios. To use it effectively, provide specifics about what makes the situation alarming rather than using it as a vague descriptor. Alternatives include "worrisome predicament" and "serious crisis", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

worrisome predicament

Substitutes "alarming" with "worrisome" and "situation" with "predicament", softening the tone slightly.

distressing state of affairs

Replaces "alarming situation" with a more formal and emphatic expression.

critical juncture

Focuses on the decisiveness and potential danger of the moment.

precarious circumstances

Highlights the instability and potential for negative outcomes.

grave emergency

Emphasizes the seriousness and urgency of the situation.

dire straits

Conveys a sense of extreme difficulty and distress.

troubling development

Focuses on the unfolding nature of the problem and its potential implications.

serious crisis

Uses the term "crisis" to emphasize the severity and potential for widespread impact.

urgent matter

Highlights the need for immediate attention and action.

perilous condition

Emphasizes the danger and risk associated with the situation.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "alarming situation" in a sentence?

To effectively use "alarming situation", follow it with specifics. For example, "The rapid increase in antibiotic resistance is an "alarming situation", threatening our ability to treat common infections effectively".

What are some alternatives to "alarming situation"?

You can use alternatives like "worrisome predicament", "distressing state of affairs", or "serious crisis" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "increasingly alarming situation"?

While not strictly redundant, "increasingly alarming situation" can often be simplified. Consider whether "worsening situation" or "deteriorating situation" might be more concise and impactful.

What makes "alarming situation" different from "concerning situation"?

"Alarming situation" suggests a higher level of immediate threat or danger compared to "concerning situation". "Alarming" implies a stronger emotional response and a greater need for urgent action.