cause alarm

USAGE SUMMARY

'cause alarm' is correct and usable in written English.
It is commonly used when trying to express a feeling of fear or shock. For example, "The loud noises outside caused alarm in the neighborhood."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Displaying the title of this book may cause alarm.

The Guardian - Opinion

But cloning is also likely to cause alarm.

The Guardian

But what is it to cause "alarm and distress"?

The Guardian - Opinion

Stoat anal sac chemicals cause alarm in snowshoe hares.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In fact, one marvels at the factors that seem to cause alarm.

The New York Times

Acta is the latest copyright enforcement scheme to cause alarm among digital activists.

The Guardian - Opinion

Dubai's elliptical statements last week about Dubai World helped cause alarm in global markets.

The New York Times

Ehrlich said the point of the research is exactly that — to cause alarm.

The Washington Post

The scale of the BJP victory will cause alarm among the Muslim minority, Jason predicted.

The Guardian

"Greenpeace manipulated the expected rise in sea levels of half a metre to cause alarm.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

The UK courts have ruled this could include the publication of words that cause alarm or distress.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cause alarm", ensure the subject clearly identifies what is creating the fear or concern. For example, "The sudden power outage caused alarm among residents."

Common error

Avoid vague or ambiguous subjects when using "cause alarm". Be specific about what exactly is creating the alarm to maintain clarity and avoid confusion. For example, instead of "Things caused alarm", specify "The unexplained changes caused alarm among investors".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cause alarm" functions as a verb phrase. It typically describes an action that provokes a feeling of fear, anxiety, or disturbance. As Ludwig AI points out, this phrase is grammatically correct and can be employed to express a feeling of fear or shock, making it a versatile tool in communication.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Encyclopedias

10%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cause alarm" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that signifies the act of provoking fear, concern, or anxiety. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and can be used to express a feeling of fear or shock. Analysis of its usage across diverse sources reveals its prevalence in news, encyclopedias, and scientific contexts, suggesting a neutral register suitable for broad audiences. Related phrases, such as "raise concerns" and "generate panic", offer nuanced alternatives for expressing varying degrees of worry. To ensure clarity, it's best practice to specify the direct cause of the alarm. Common errors include vague attributions of cause.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

set off alarm bells

An idiomatic expression indicating something is wrong or dangerous.

create anxiety

Focuses specifically on the emotional response of anxiety.

raise concerns

Focuses on articulating worries or doubts.

generate panic

Emphasizes a sudden and widespread fear or anxiety.

spark concern

Suggests a milder reaction of worry or interest.

instill fear

Indicates a deliberate or forceful introduction of fear.

give rise to worry

Indicates that something is the origin of worry.

trigger apprehension

Highlights the initiation of worry or unease.

provoke unease

Highlights the feeling of being disturbed or uncomfortable.

arouse suspicion

Focus shifts from general alarm to a specific sense of doubt or distrust.

FAQs

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

You can use "cause alarm" to indicate that something is creating fear or concern. For example, "The unexpected news began to cause alarm among the employees".

What can I say instead of "cause alarm"?

You can use alternatives like "arouse suspicion", "generate panic", or "raise concerns" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "cause alarm" or "create alarm"?

"Cause alarm" is more common and natural. While "create alarm" is understandable, it's less idiomatic. Therefore, "cause alarm" is the preferred usage.

What's the difference between "cause alarm" and "cause panic"?

"Cause alarm" is a general expression indicating concern or fear, while "cause panic" suggests a more intense and widespread sense of fear and chaos.