extremely troubling

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "extremely troubling" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation, event, or issue that causes significant concern or distress. Example: "The recent rise in cyberattacks on critical infrastructure is extremely troubling for national security."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Coburn finds Sotomayor's views "extremely troubling".

The New York Times

"To suddenly do a U-turn is extremely troubling.

The Guardian

But one government watchdog group called the pattern of donations extremely troubling.

The New York Times

The S.E.C.'s inability, or unwillingness, to catch Mr. Madoff is extremely troubling.

The New York Times

Such confidence was, of course, extremely troubling to a Leicester supporter.

The Guardian - Sport

The economic case for intervening to save Chrysler is just not that strong, and that is extremely troubling.

The Economist

From a news release: "I find Mr. McClellan's revelations about attempts to cover-up the Valerie Plame leak extremely troubling.

The New York Times

As described by Sheri Fink, Anna Pou's contribution to the debate regarding disaster preparedness is extremely troubling.

The New York Times

Speaking to the Guardian, King said the trend of DHS searching journalists' electronic equipment was extremely troubling.

The Guardian

In a statement, the board called the audit results "extremely troubling" and said it would proceed with the more comprehensive review.

The New York Times

Harold Hongju Koh, a law professor at Yale, said, "If calling people enemy combatants is another way of holding American citizens indefinitely, it's extremely troubling.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "extremely troubling", consider the specific nuance you want to convey. Is it alarm, concern, disturbance, or a mix? Choose synonyms or related phrases to fine-tune your message for maximum impact.

Common error

Avoid using "extremely troubling" excessively in contexts where the issue is minor or subjective. Overusing strong language can diminish its impact when addressing genuinely serious matters.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "extremely troubling" primarily functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun or noun phrase to express a high degree of concern or worry about something. As shown by Ludwig, it describes something that causes significant unease or disturbance.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

87%

Formal & Business

6%

Science

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "extremely troubling" is a common and grammatically sound adjectival phrase used to express significant concern or worry. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and prevalence in various contexts, particularly within news and media. While versatile, it's essential to use it judiciously, avoiding overuse in sensationalized contexts to maintain its impact. Alternatives such as "deeply concerning" or "highly alarming" can offer nuanced expressions of unease. Mastering the appropriate use of "extremely troubling" enhances clarity and precision in conveying serious issues.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

deeply concerning

Subtly emphasizes the level of worry associated with the issue.

highly alarming

Emphasizes the potential danger or risk involved.

gravely disturbing

Conveys a sense of profound unease or shock.

seriously worrying

Focuses on the anxiety or apprehension caused by the matter.

profoundly upsetting

Highlights the emotional impact and distress caused.

particularly concerning

Emphasizes a specific aspect of the issue that is worrisome.

disturbingly significant

Emphasizes importance of an issue that creates unease.

exceptionally problematic

Focuses on the difficulties and challenges posed by the situation.

unsettlingly important

Highlights the significance and discomfort associated with a specific fact.

very disquieting

Emphasizes a feeling of anxiety and restlessness.

FAQs

How can I use "extremely troubling" in a sentence?

You can use "extremely troubling" to describe situations or information that causes significant concern or worry. For example, "The report's findings on the increase in poverty rates are extremely troubling".

What phrases can I use instead of "extremely troubling"?

Alternatives include "deeply concerning", "highly alarming", or "seriously worrying", depending on the specific context and the level of intensity you wish to convey.

Is "extremely troubling" a formal or informal expression?

"Extremely troubling" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although it is more commonly found in news reports and professional communications where a serious issue is being discussed.

What makes something "extremely troubling" as opposed to just "troubling"?

The addition of "extremely" intensifies the degree of concern or worry. Something that is "extremely troubling" causes a higher level of anxiety and is perceived as more serious than something that is simply "troubling".