frightening problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "frightening problem" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or issue that causes fear or anxiety. Example: "The team was faced with a frightening problem that could jeopardize the entire project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

In the America of public-opinion polls, this country's most frightening problem is, and for some time now has been, drugs.

The New Yorker

"The North Korean nuclear weapons [programme] is a scary problem, but it is a one-time issue; the more frightening problem is what would happen afterwards," he declared.

The Guardian

"The North Korean nuclear weapons [programme] is a scary problem, but it is a one-time issue; the more frightening problem is what would happen afterwards," he says.

The Guardian

When the program started, Adam's father, John Walsh, who became an advocate for crime victims and a host of the television program "America's Most Wanted," said, "There are contingencies for protecting shoppers from fire and tornadoes, and now with 'Code Adam' all retailers can fight an even more frightening problem -- missing children".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

But if U.S. policy succeeds, China would become unstable with possibly frightening political problems.

Forbes

But we must feel confident that Congress will have the fortitude to ease up on spending when the economy starts to improve, so as to address our undeniably frightening long-term budget problem.

The New York Times

The problem with frightening schools away from academisation and forming MATs themselves is that if they start to struggle, they will just get swallowed up by chains and lose their identity.

The Guardian

Clinton, who underwent a quadruple bypass in September, told CNN's Dr. Sanjay Gupta that his perennial weight problem and frightening experience with cardiac surgery have inspired him to take on childhood obesity in the U.S. The ex-commander-in-chief, ranked No. 56 on the Forbes Celebrity 100 list, said that bad health habits began in his childhood.

Forbes

He's at the center of a recent documentary, "Inequality for All," which explains the problem in frightening detail.

Los Angeles Times

The first two movements, and some of the fourth, contain technical problems of frightening obtuseness.

The New York Times

Some industry experts accuse Whitney of exaggerating the crisis and of worsening the cities' problems by frightening away investors.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "frightening problem", ensure the context clearly establishes the source and nature of the fear. Be specific about what makes the problem frightening to enhance clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the "frightening" aspect of a problem unnecessarily. Overuse diminishes the impact and can make your writing seem less credible. Reserve "frightening problem" for truly serious and alarming situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "frightening problem" functions as an adjective-noun combination, where 'frightening' modifies 'problem'. It serves to emphasize the alarming or fear-inducing nature of a specific issue. This is supported by Ludwig AI, which confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Wiki

7%

Reference

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "frightening problem" is a valid and usable English expression that describes an issue causing fear or anxiety. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. While relatively rare, the phrase effectively conveys the severity and potential negative impact of a given situation. Alternatives like "alarming issue" or "terrifying challenge" can be used to express similar concerns. The best practice is to use the phrase in context that supports and clarifies the source and nature of the fear, avoiding exaggeration for maximum impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

alarming issue

Emphasizes the sudden realization of a problem that causes concern.

terrifying challenge

Highlights the difficulty and fear associated with overcoming a particular obstacle.

daunting obstacle

Focuses on the intimidating nature of a barrier that needs to be addressed.

scary situation

Emphasizes the fear-inducing aspect of a set of circumstances.

worrisome predicament

Highlights the troubling and uncertain nature of a situation.

disturbing development

Focuses on the unsettling nature of a new event or unfolding situation.

unsettling matter

Emphasizes the anxiety and unease caused by a particular issue.

serious threat

Highlights the potential danger and harm associated with a particular problem.

grave concern

Underscores the seriousness and importance of a particular issue.

ominous sign

Focuses on the foreboding nature of a problem that suggests negative future outcomes.

FAQs

How can I use "frightening problem" in a sentence?

You can use "frightening problem" to describe issues that cause significant fear or anxiety. For example, "The spread of the virus is a "frightening problem" for global health officials."

What are some alternatives to "frightening problem"?

Some alternatives include "alarming issue", "terrifying challenge", or "daunting obstacle", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "frightening problem" in writing?

Use "frightening problem" when you want to emphasize the fear or anxiety associated with a particular challenge or situation. Ensure that the context supports the use of such a strong descriptor.

Is "frightening problem" considered formal or informal language?

"Frightening problem" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but it's more impactful in situations where the issue genuinely evokes fear or serious concern. Consider the audience and purpose of your writing when choosing this phrase.