cause a concern

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cause a concern" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing something that raises worry or anxiety about a particular issue or situation. Example: "The recent increase in pollution levels has begun to cause a concern among local residents regarding their health."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

It was from this that the label "junkies" was born.The behavior of heroin addicts was soon, however, to cause a concern to the public and the authorities.

Independent

However, when it comes to implementation, the MPC computational effort may cause a concern for real-time applications.

Mechatronics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

This is causing a major concern for sustainable agriculture.

Journal of Hazardous Materials

This is a cause for concern and a reason for further investigation.

British Medical Journal

President Obama said the problem is a "cause for concern" and "not a cause for alarm".

Forbes

In young active patients, this could be a cause for concern, particularly with a thin bearing.

The Knee

These results are a cause for concern when conducting a survey on bereavement.

BMC Palliative Care

His health is both a mystery and a cause for concern.

The New York Times - Arts

However, his appointment of a lifelong prohibitionist, Senator Jeff Sessions, is a cause for concern".

The Guardian

An old wives' tale says a feverish baby is not always a cause for concern.

The New York Times - Health

Although this strangeness was a selling point, it was also a cause for concern.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cause a concern", clearly state what is causing the concern to avoid ambiguity. For instance, instead of saying "The data caused a concern", specify "The data on declining sales caused a concern among investors".

Common error

While grammatically correct, "cause a concern" can sound overly formal in casual settings. Consider using more natural alternatives like "worry", "trouble", or "bother" when speaking or writing informally.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cause a concern" functions as a verb phrase, where 'cause' acts as the main verb and 'a concern' serves as the object. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is considered grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cause a concern" is a grammatically sound phrase that expresses that something is generating worry or anxiety. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and usable in written English. Although its formality level is neutral to professional, consider more informal alternatives such as "worry" or "trouble" in casual settings. Predominantly found in News & Media and Science contexts, this phrase is best employed when clearly stating the source of the concern to avoid ambiguity. While not the most frequent expression, mastering its usage contributes to a well-rounded and precise communication style.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

raise an alarm

Implies a stronger sense of urgency or potential danger than "cause a concern".

spark apprehension

Focuses on the feeling of anxiety or worry that arises.

generate anxiety

Highlights the creation of a feeling of unease.

prompt unease

Similar to 'generate anxiety', but perhaps slightly milder.

give rise to worries

Emphasizes the origin of the worries or concerns.

create misgivings

Suggests a feeling of doubt or hesitation.

engender disquiet

More formal and emphasizes a loss of peace or tranquility.

foment disquietude

A less common, more literary way to convey a similar sense of unease.

precipitate worries

Indicates that something has rapidly brought about feelings of concern.

be a matter of worry

Changes the focus to the state of being worrisome rather than the act of causing concern.

FAQs

What does "cause a concern" mean?

To "cause a concern" means to create worry or anxiety about something. It indicates that a particular issue or situation is prompting feelings of unease or apprehension.

How can I use "cause a concern" in a sentence?

You can use "cause a concern" to describe something that is prompting worry. For example, "The rising cost of living is causing a concern among pensioners".

What are some alternatives to "cause a concern"?

Some alternatives to "cause a concern" include "raise an alarm", "spark apprehension", or "generate anxiety", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "cause a concern" formal or informal?

"Cause a concern" is generally considered more formal. In informal contexts, you might prefer alternatives like "worry", "trouble", or "bother".