gives cause for concern

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gives cause for concern" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a situation or issue that raises worries or apprehensions. Example: "The recent spike in crime rates in the neighborhood gives cause for concern among residents."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

But another historical analogy gives cause for concern.

The Economist

Much as I like to back investigative journalism, the committee's report gives cause for concern.

Independent

But advocates for the poor say the number of people facing the deadline gives cause for concern.

The New York Times

But it's not only the advance of the far-right Progress party that gives cause for concern.

The Guardian - Opinion

They join yellowhammers, ring ouzels, lesser spotted woodpeckers, willow tits, marsh tits, grasshopper warblers and savi's warblers, on the list of species whose future gives cause for concern.

The Guardian

To be fair, it is not Rutka's diary that gives cause for concern but the way in which its discovery has been reported.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

Both options give cause for concern.

The Guardian - Opinion

The Queen Mother never gave cause for concern.

The Economist

For conscientious readers and editors, Ecker's findings across the two studies give cause for concern.

The New Yorker

Still, some aspects of the current downturn give cause for concern.

The New York Times

Areas such as Luton, Thurrock in Essex and Peterborough are also giving cause for concern.

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "gives cause for concern", clearly state what specifically is causing the concern to avoid ambiguity. For instance, instead of saying "The situation gives cause for concern", specify: "The lack of funding gives cause for concern about the project's future."

Common error

While "gives cause for concern" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "is worrying" or "is concerning" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gives cause for concern" functions as an idiomatic expression used to indicate that a particular situation, event, or piece of information is worrying or alarming. Ludwig AI indicates that it's grammatically correct and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "gives cause for concern" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to indicate that a situation is worrisome or alarming. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread usage. It is most commonly found in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business contexts, suggesting a neutral to formal register. While suitable for various settings, it's best to use more direct and simpler alternatives in informal conversations. The phrase serves as a signal that something is not right and warrants further investigation or action. Alternatives include "raises concerns" and "is worrisome".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

raises concerns

Replaces "gives cause" with a more direct verb, emphasizing the act of creating worry.

is worrisome

Simplifies the phrase to a direct adjective describing the situation.

prompts apprehension

Uses a more formal vocabulary to convey a sense of unease.

is a matter of concern

Transforms the phrase into a noun-based expression, focusing on the issue itself.

elicits unease

Emphasizes the feeling of discomfort or anxiety produced by the situation.

sparks anxiety

Highlights the generation of anxiety as a result of something.

presents a problem

Focuses on the problematic aspect of the situation, indicating a need for resolution.

suggests potential issues

Introduces the possibility of problems without stating them definitively.

warrants scrutiny

Implies that careful examination is necessary due to potential problems.

poses a challenge

Frames the concern as a difficulty that needs to be overcome.

FAQs

How can I use "gives cause for concern" in a sentence?

Use "gives cause for concern" to express that something is worrying or alarming. For example: "The company's declining profits "gives cause for concern" about potential layoffs."

What can I say instead of "gives cause for concern"?

You can use alternatives like "raises concerns", "is worrisome", or "prompts apprehension" depending on the level of formality required.

Which is correct, "gives cause for concern" or "gives reason for concern"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. "Gives cause for concern" is slightly more common, but "gives reason for concern" is also perfectly acceptable.

What's the difference between "gives cause for concern" and "is concerning"?

"Gives cause for concern" is a more formal and emphatic way of saying something "is concerning". The former is often used in official reports or serious discussions, while the latter is suitable for general conversations.