can be concerning

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be concerning" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing something that may cause worry or anxiety. Example: "The recent increase in pollution levels can be concerning for the health of the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

April 13 , 2019- While the incident took place at Barnard, we know that incidents like this can be concerning and upsetting for those not directly impacted.

Columbia University

While the incident took place at Barnard, we know that incidents like this can be concerning and upsetting for those not directly impacted.

Columbia University

The hormone replacement story is a perfect case study in this domain; it has much to teach us about how fragile our knowledge base can be concerning a drug's ultimate effects.

The New York Times - Books

During extreme events, GICs can be concerning even in mid- and low-latitude countries and have become a global issue.

Earth, Planets and Space

However, this can be concerning to users who do not wish their information to be sold or to be publicly available.

TechCrunch

Suppliers, of course, are incentivized to talk about how important their particular offering is to our service, and it can be concerning to investors to read stories of content nonrenewal.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

That's all I can be concerned with.

The New York Times - Sports

"Maybe it is something we can be concerned about," the City manager said.

The Guardian - Sport

I can be concerned on one hand, and be productive on the other hand.

The New Yorker

There's no doubt that one can be concerned about grade inflation.

The Guardian

"Maybe it is something we can be concerned [about]," he said.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can be concerning" to express a moderate level of worry or importance, suitable for situations that warrant attention but are not yet critical.

Common error

Avoid using "can be concerning" when a stronger expression of alarm is warranted, such as in cases of imminent danger or severe consequences. Instead, opt for phrases like "is alarming" or "poses a significant threat".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be concerning" functions as a modal expression indicating a potential cause for worry or anxiety. Ludwig AI provides examples where it's used to describe situations that warrant attention but aren't necessarily critical. The modal verb "can" softens the statement, suggesting a possibility rather than a certainty.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

29%

Academia

28%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can be concerning" is a versatile phrase for expressing a moderate level of worry or importance. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across diverse contexts like news, science, and academia. While it's not the strongest expression of alarm, it effectively highlights potential problems warranting further attention. Be mindful of the context and consider stronger alternatives if the situation demands a more urgent or serious tone. Remember, it's most suitable for situations where a degree of uncertainty or potential risk exists.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

may be worrying

Changes the auxiliary verb and adjective to convey a slightly different shade of concern.

could be alarming

Replaces "concerning" with a stronger adjective suggesting heightened worry.

might be troublesome

Substitutes "concerning" with "troublesome", implying potential problems or difficulties.

is potentially problematic

Uses a more formal tone to indicate a possible issue.

warrants attention

Shifts the focus to the need for consideration rather than direct worry.

gives cause for anxiety

Emphasizes the emotional response of anxiety that the situation evokes.

is a reason for unease

Highlights the feeling of discomfort or apprehension.

should raise questions

Focuses on the need for inquiry and investigation.

presents a challenge

Reframes the concern as an obstacle to overcome.

is worthy of consideration

Emphasizes the importance of careful thought and evaluation.

FAQs

How can I use "can be concerning" in a sentence?

The phrase "can be concerning" is used to express a moderate level of worry or importance about something. For example, "The rise in unemployment rates "can be concerning" for the economy."

What can I say instead of "can be concerning"?

You can use alternatives like "may be worrying", "could be alarming", or "might be troublesome" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "can be concerning" or "is concerning"?

Both "can be concerning" and "is concerning" are grammatically correct, but they convey different meanings. "Can be concerning" suggests a possibility or potential for concern, while "is concerning" indicates a present and definite state of worry.

What's the difference between "can be concerning" and "can be concerning about"?

"Can be concerning" is used to describe something that causes worry, while "can be concerned about" indicates a person's feeling of worry. For instance, "The news "can be concerning"" versus "People "can be concerned about" the news".