cause for alarm

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cause for alarm" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate something that is cause for concern or worry. For example, "The increase in CO2 emissions is a cause for alarm for the planet's future."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

No cause for alarm, then.

The Economist

ReprintsSo no cause for alarm?

The Economist

There's no cause for alarm".

The New York Times

So, again, no cause for alarm.

The New Yorker

"It is not cause for alarm".

The New Yorker

This is no cause for alarm.

The New York Times - Books

No cause for alarm here.

The New York Times

But there is no cause for alarm.

The Economist

But there was no cause for alarm.

The New York Times - Sports

It isn't any cause for alarm".

The Guardian

There is no cause for alarm".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cause for alarm", be specific about what is causing the alarm. Providing context and details strengthens the message and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "cause for alarm" too frequently in your writing. Overuse can dilute its impact. Opt for synonyms like "reason for concern" or "matter of concern" to vary your language and maintain the phrase's effectiveness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cause for alarm" functions as a noun phrase that identifies something that should induce concern or worry. It is frequently used to highlight potential dangers or negative consequences, prompting awareness and often action. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cause for alarm" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase that functions as a noun, designed to highlight situations that warrant immediate attention and concern. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for a range of contexts, particularly within news and media, where its neutral register effectively conveys seriousness and urgency. While versatile, it's important to use the phrase judiciously, diversifying your language with synonyms like "reason for concern" or "matter of concern" to maintain the desired impact. Understanding its communicative purpose – to alert and underscore potential negative consequences – ensures its effective use in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reason for concern

Focuses on the underlying reason causing worry, rather than the alarm itself.

ground for concern

Emphasizes the basis or foundation for worry, suggesting a more reasoned assessment.

reason to worry

Directly states that there is a justification for worry or anxiety.

source of anxiety

Highlights the origin of unease or apprehension, focusing on the emotional impact.

matter of concern

Indicates something that should be taken seriously and warrants attention.

justification for concern

Similar to 'ground for concern', this emphasizes the validity and logic behind feeling worried.

basis for apprehension

A more formal and slightly stronger phrase, suggesting a well-founded feeling of unease.

warrant for worry

Emphasizes that there are sufficient reasons to be concerned or worried.

danger sign

Implies that something is a warning of potential harm or trouble.

red flag

Similar to 'danger sign', but often used in a more specific or technical context to indicate a problem.

FAQs

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

You can use "cause for alarm" to point out situations that should make people worried or concerned. For example, "The rising sea levels are a "cause for alarm" for coastal communities".

What are some alternatives to "cause for alarm"?

Some alternatives include "reason for concern", "matter of concern", or "ground for concern", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "cause for alarm"?

It's appropriate when there's a legitimate reason to be worried about something, suggesting potential negative consequences if the situation is not addressed.

Is "reason for alarm" interchangeable with "cause for alarm"?

While very similar, "reason for alarm" tends to focus on the justification for worry, whereas ""cause for alarm"" highlights the trigger or origin of the concern.