express consternation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "express consternation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when someone wants to convey feelings of anxiety, dismay, or concern about a situation. Example: "The committee members were quick to express consternation over the unexpected budget cuts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

So far, China has been reluctant to do more than express consternation and call for restraint (see article).

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Representatives of some developing nations expressed consternation.

The New York Times

Instead, he expresses consternation toward his co-religionists.

The New Yorker

While officials tried to sound upbeat, some Palestinian analysts and reformers expressed consternation.

The New York Times

But I can't remember them for a moment expressing consternation about it.

The Guardian

The huggee's face expressed consternation and his arms awkwardly extended straight out into the air.

The New York Times - Magazine

His friends on the political right have expressed consternation and indignation on his behalf.

The Economist

In a country that experienced seven years of military dictatorship until 1974, many leftists have expressed consternation.

The Guardian

The usually sympathetic board of the Chicago Tribune expressed consternation in an editorial entitled "Pants on Fire Award".

The Economist

The worst that happened was Ryan's mother (and Tony Dungy) expressing consternation about the coach's profanity.

The New York Times

The Grande Mosquée de Paris expressed "consternation" at the attack, as it did after previous attacks – but on those occasions it added a denunciation of Isis.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "express consternation" when you want to convey a sense of alarm, bewilderment, or strong concern, especially in response to unexpected or negative developments.

Common error

While "express consternation" is perfectly acceptable, avoid using it too frequently in casual conversations or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "show worry" or "voice concern" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "express consternation" functions as a verb phrase where "express" is the verb and "consternation" is the noun object. It is used to describe the act of conveying feelings of anxiety, dismay, or concern, as shown in Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "express consternation" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to convey feelings of dismay, anxiety, or alarm. As shown by Ludwig, it appears predominantly in news and media sources and has a neutral to formal register. While effective in formal writing, consider simpler alternatives like "voice concern" in casual contexts. The phrase's strong communicative power lies in its ability to articulate a significant level of worry or bewilderment regarding a situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

display dismay

This alternative emphasizes disappointment and discouragement.

voice concern

This alternative is less intense, focusing on simply stating worry rather than expressing dismay.

register concern

A more neutral expression indicating attention to a worrying issue.

show apprehension

This phrase highlights the anticipation of future problems or anxieties.

indicate unease

This suggests a subtle expression of discomfort or anxiety.

manifest worry

This phrase suggests a more visible or evident display of concern.

reveal anxiety

This option focuses on the outward display of inner worry or nervousness.

register disapproval

This alternative focuses on expressing disagreement or objection.

air grievances

This phrase emphasizes the expression of complaints or resentments.

lodge a protest

This suggests a formal or official expression of objection.

FAQs

How can I use "express consternation" in a sentence?

You can use "express consternation" to describe someone showing strong concern or dismay. For example, "The shareholders "expressed consternation" over the company's declining profits".

What are some alternatives to "express consternation"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "voice concern", "show dismay", or "reveal anxiety".

Is it appropriate to use "express consternation" in formal writing?

Yes, "express consternation" is suitable for formal writing, especially in news reports, academic papers, or official statements where you need to convey a strong sense of concern or alarm.

What's the difference between "express consternation" and "express concern"?

"Express concern" is a more general and mild way to show worry. "Express consternation" implies a stronger reaction, suggesting dismay, bewilderment, or alarm in addition to worry.