main worry

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "main worry" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the primary concern or issue that someone is facing. Example: "Her main worry about the project was the tight deadline and the limited resources available."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's our main worry.

The New York Times

His main worry is bureaucracy.

The Economist

"My main worry was death," she said.

Independent

For 27%, it was their main worry.

The Economist

But money is not their main worry.

The Guardian - Opinion

It's not my main worry now.

The Guardian - Sport

The main worry is still Jimmy Anderson.

The Guardian - Sport

His main worry, though, is young people.

The Guardian

But that was hardly the main worry.

The New Yorker

His main worry is keeping his players.

The Guardian - Sport

Ian Poulter is the main worry for Europe.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing a multifaceted issue, clearly identifying the "main worry" helps focus the discussion and prioritize potential solutions.

Common error

Avoid using "main worry" when the concern is actually minor or secondary. Ensure it genuinely represents the most significant anxiety or problem at hand.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "main worry" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies the most significant concern or source of anxiety in a given context. As evidenced by Ludwig, it's a commonly used expression in diverse situations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "main worry" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that effectively communicates the primary concern or source of anxiety in various contexts. Ludwig AI confirms this. Its versatility is evident in its presence across news media, scientific publications, and business communications. When using "main worry", ensure it accurately reflects the most significant concern to maintain clarity and impact. Consider alternatives like "primary concern" or "chief anxiety" to fine-tune the nuance of your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dominant worry

Similar to "main worry" but emphasizes the power or control the worry has.

primary concern

Emphasizes the importance of the concern rather than the anxiety associated with it.

chief anxiety

Highlights the anxious aspect of the concern, suggesting a strong feeling of unease.

foremost concern

Highlights the priority and importance of the concern.

major preoccupation

Implies a persistent and absorbing concern that dominates one's thoughts.

biggest fear

Focuses on the potential negative outcome that is dreaded the most.

main source of stress

Highlights the stress-inducing nature of the concern.

principal apprehension

Uses a more formal tone to express a feeling of anxiety or fear.

central unease

Focuses on the lack of comfort or peace of mind caused by the concern.

overriding concern

Suggests that the concern takes precedence over all other considerations.

FAQs

How can I use "main worry" in a sentence?

You can use "main worry" to express the primary concern in a given situation. For example: "Her "main worry" was the impending deadline."

What are some alternatives to "main worry"?

Alternatives include "primary concern", "chief anxiety", or "biggest fear", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "main worry" or "major concern"?

Both phrases are acceptable, but "main worry" emphasizes the anxiety associated with the issue, while "major concern" simply highlights the importance of the issue.

What's the difference between "main worry" and "minor worry"?

"Main worry" refers to the most significant concern, while "minor worry" refers to a less important or less pressing concern.