expressing consternation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "expressing consternation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a feeling of anxiety or dismay in response to a situation or event. Example: "The sudden announcement of layoffs left many employees expressing consternation about their job security."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

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

The Guardian

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

The New York Times

And from the start, he viewed it as a simple question of law and American values, privately expressing consternation at those who sought to block the project.

The New York Times

In meetings with senators, Ms. Ray pressed her case in a polite but firm manner, repeatedly expressing consternation over Congress's inability to find extra money.

The New York Times

(To those of you expressing consternation at being called a lady, I understand your pain, but I also quote Shoshanna: "Yes you are, you're the ladies").

Vice

Nervous semi-luddites like myself have been heard expressing consternation about the potential fallout when it comes to real human intimacy.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 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

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

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "expressing consternation" when you want to convey a sense of formal and considered concern, especially in professional or journalistic contexts. For less formal situations, consider alternatives like "voicing concern" or "showing dismay".

Common error

Avoid using "expressing consternation" in casual conversation or informal writing, as it can sound overly formal or stilted. In such contexts, simpler alternatives like "showing worry" or "voicing concern" are often more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "expressing consternation" functions as a verbal phrase often acting as part of the predicate in a sentence. According to Ludwig AI, it is correct and usable in written English. Examples in Ludwig show its use to describe a reaction to events or situations.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "expressing consternation" is a grammatically sound and formal way to describe someone showing feelings of worry, shock, or dismay. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability, primarily within News & Media contexts. While phrases like "voicing concern" or "showing dismay" offer simpler alternatives for informal settings, "expressing consternation" best serves professional or journalistic needs where a considered sense of concern is to be conveyed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

voicing concern

This alternative focuses on the act of speaking out about a worry or concern.

showing dismay

This alternative emphasizes the visible display of disappointment or shock.

registering disapproval

This alternative highlights the act of formally indicating disagreement or opposition.

evincing apprehension

This alternative emphasizes the demonstration of anxiety or fear about something.

communicating unease

This alternative focuses on conveying a feeling of discomfort or anxiety.

airing misgivings

This alternative emphasizes the act of expressing doubts or reservations.

betraying anxiety

This focuses on an unintentional reveal of worry or nervousness.

displaying perturbation

This alternative highlights a visible state of agitation or disturbance.

manifesting disquiet

This alternative underscores the outward showing of disturbance or worry.

revealing discomposure

This alternative emphasizes a loss of calmness or composure.

FAQs

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

You can use "expressing consternation" to describe someone showing a feeling of worry, shock, or dismay. For example, "The community members were "voicing concern" and "expressing consternation" over the proposed development project".

What's a simpler way to say "expressing consternation"?

Alternatives to "expressing consternation" include "showing dismay", "voicing concern", or "registering disapproval depending on the context".

Is "expressing consternation" appropriate for informal settings?

While grammatically correct, "expressing consternation" is quite formal. In informal settings, consider using phrases like "showing worry" or "voicing concern" instead.

What is the difference between "expressing concern" and "expressing consternation"?

"Expressing concern" is a more general term, while "expressing consternation" implies a stronger feeling of alarm or dismay. You might "voice concern" over a minor issue, but "expressing consternation" suggests a more serious or shocking situation.