nagging worry

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "nagging worry" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a persistent or bothersome concern that is difficult to shake off. Example: "Despite the beautiful weather, I couldn't enjoy the day because of a nagging worry about my upcoming presentation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But for people in the Four Corners area, especially, exposure to mouse droppings often brings on a period of nagging worry.

The New York Times

Camcorder users can shoot in Full HD mode (1920 x 1080) for an impressive 225 minutes using a single 32GB Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo HX, virtually eliminating the nagging worry about how much space is left.

TechCrunch

I have a nagging worry.

The Guardian - Music

"There was another nagging worry.

The Guardian

It's the opposition's slogan, but it's everybody's nagging worry.

The New Yorker

One nagging worry is migration by ethnic kin from two poorer neighbours.

The Economist

It is an anxiety linked to a nagging worry about Mr Miliband himself.

The Guardian - Opinion

For the hypochondriac, a nagging worry often becomes panic, which then leads to further symptoms.

The New York Times - Science

There was also a nagging worry that Sophia might be a bit too Jewish.

The Guardian - Opinion

Worst of all, at the back of my mind there's a nagging worry that all this is personal.

The Guardian - Opinion

I awarded myself an extra creme de menthe after the turkey but it didn't remove the nagging worry.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "nagging worry" to describe a persistent, often minor, concern that affects one's peace of mind. It's suitable when the worry isn't overwhelming but is continuously present.

Common error

Avoid using "nagging worry" when describing severe anxiety or trauma. This phrase is best suited for low-grade, persistent concerns rather than acute, debilitating fears.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "nagging worry" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject or object within a sentence. It refers to a persistent, bothersome concern. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Science

12%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "nagging worry" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe a persistent, often minor, concern. As Ludwig AI states, it's perfectly acceptable for use in English writing. Predominantly found in news and media, the phrase is suitable for neutral registers. For alternative expressions, consider "lingering concern" or "persistent anxiety". Remember to use "nagging worry" when the concern is ongoing but not overwhelming, and to avoid it when describing acute or severe anxiety. This detailed analysis should help ensure its appropriate and effective use in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lingering concern

Focuses on the duration and continuation of the worry.

persistent anxiety

Emphasizes the anxious aspect and its continuous nature.

underlying unease

Highlights a subtle but present feeling of discomfort.

gnawing concern

Implies that the worry is constantly bothering and affecting someone.

troubling thought

Shifts the focus to the cognitive aspect of the worry.

recurring fear

Highlights the repetitive and frightening nature of the worry.

nagging doubt

Focuses on the uncertainty and lack of confidence.

lingering apprehension

Emphasizes the feeling of dread or anticipation of something negative.

constant preoccupation

Highlights that thoughts are dominating someone's mind.

unsettling feeling

Focuses on the discomfort and disturbance caused by the worry.

FAQs

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

You can use "nagging worry" to describe a persistent concern that keeps bothering you, such as, "Despite the good news, I still have a nagging worry about the future."

What are some alternatives to "nagging worry"?

Alternatives include "lingering concern", "persistent anxiety", or "underlying unease", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "nagging worry" too informal for professional writing?

While "nagging worry" is generally acceptable, for highly formal contexts, consider using "persistent concern" or "underlying anxiety" to maintain a more professional tone.

What's the difference between "nagging worry" and "acute anxiety"?

"Nagging worry" describes a persistent, low-level concern, while "acute anxiety" refers to a sudden, intense episode of anxiety. The former is chronic and subtle, the latter is immediate and severe.