make for alarming reading

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make for alarming reading" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing information or content that is concerning or troubling to read. Example: "The report on climate change makes for alarming reading, highlighting the urgent need for action."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

A page of warnings on the Samsung website about possible side effects of watching 3D television make for alarming reading ("do not use if you're in bad physical condition, need sleep or have been drinking alcohol") – but while this is clearly precautionary in the same way that blurb on the back of a medicine bottle is, the brain does have to put in a lot more work to process two images.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

It makes for alarming reading though not for the reason that first springs to mind.

The Economist

A spokesman for the teachers' union, the Educational Institute of Scotland said the figures would make "alarming reading for trainee and induction year teachers, and for Scottish education as a whole".

BBC

They make for chirpy reading.

The Economist

This can make for fascinating reading.

The New York Times - Books

The book can make for dry reading.

The New York Times - Books

Such developments make for grim reading.

The New York Times

The statistics make for unpalatable reading.

Independent

The numbers make for stark reading.

Independent

They make for uncomfortable reading.

The Guardian

Monsters make for compelling reading.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "make for alarming reading" when you want to convey that something is concerning or raises red flags based on the content you are reading. It's more impactful than simply stating the information is "alarming."

Common error

Avoid using overly casual or humorous language when describing something that "makes for alarming reading". The seriousness of the content should be reflected in your tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make for alarming reading" functions as a descriptive expression. Ludwig AI confirms it conveys that something is concerning or troubling to read. The primary grammatical function is to characterize the nature of a written text.

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 "make for alarming reading" is a grammatically correct and usable expression to describe content that is concerning or troubling, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Though not very common, it is primarily found in news and media contexts. To enhance clarity, consider alternative phrases such as "makes for shocking reading" or "makes for frightening reading" depending on the specific nuance you aim to convey. Remember to use this phrase judiciously to maintain a professional and appropriate tone relative to the content being discussed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Makes for shocking reading

Emphasizes the surprise and disturbing nature of the content.

Makes for frightening reading

Highlights the fear-inducing aspect of the content.

Makes for disturbing reading

Focuses on the unsettling nature of the content.

Makes for sobering reading

Emphasizes the serious and thought-provoking aspect of the content.

Makes for unsettling reading

Highlights the uneasy feeling the content evokes.

Makes for terrifying reading

Stresses the extreme fear caused by the reading material.

Makes for troubling reading

Highlights the worrying aspects of the content.

Makes for chilling reading

Emphasizes the cold, fear-inducing nature of the content.

Makes for startling reading

Focuses on the surprising and potentially alarming nature of the content.

Makes for horrifying reading

Stresses the horrific nature of the content.

FAQs

How can I use "make for alarming reading" in a sentence?

You can use "make for alarming reading" to describe a document or report that contains disturbing or concerning information. For example: "The leaked documents "make for alarming reading", revealing widespread corruption."

What's a more formal alternative to "make for alarming reading"?

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives such as "is deeply concerning", "raises serious concerns", or "presents a disturbing picture". These options maintain the gravity of the situation while using more formal language.

Is "makes for alarming reading" grammatically correct?

Yes, "makes for alarming reading" is grammatically correct. The phrase follows the structure "make for" + adjective + noun, which is a common and accepted pattern in English.

What is the difference between "make for alarming reading" and "is alarming to read"?

"Make for alarming reading" suggests that the content itself creates the feeling of alarm, while "is alarming to read" simply describes the feeling. The former is often used to emphasize the inherent qualities of the document, while the latter focuses on the reader's reaction.