real worry

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "real worry" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express a genuine concern or anxiety about a particular issue or situation. Example: "The rising pollution levels in our city are a real worry for the health of our community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"And it's a real worry.

The Guardian

That is the real worry.

The Guardian - Opinion

And that's a real worry.

The New Yorker

Bowling is a real worry.

The Guardian - Sport

Therein lies the real worry.

The New Yorker

The report highlights a real worry.

The New York Times

My real worry, though, is cultural.

The New York Times

And that is the real worry.

The Economist

The planners' real worry is reunification.

The Economist

Real worry is etched on his head.

The Guardian - Film

"My real worry is my grandchildren.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "real worry", ensure the context clearly defines the source or cause of the concern to provide clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "real worry" merely as an intensifier without providing specific details about the concern. Overusing it in this way can dilute its impact and make your writing seem less precise. For example, instead of saying "Climate change is a real worry", specify what aspects of climate change are causing concern: "The increasing frequency of extreme weather events due to climate change is a "real worry"".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "real worry" functions primarily as a noun phrase where the adjective "real" intensifies the noun "worry". This construction emphasizes the genuineness and significance of the concern. Ludwig's analysis supports this, showing its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "real worry" is a common and grammatically correct way to express genuine concern or anxiety. According to Ludwig, it is usable in written English and can be replaced by alternatives like "genuine concern" or "serious apprehension" to vary your language. It's important to provide context when using this phrase to clearly communicate the source of the worry. Avoid overusing it as a mere intensifier. The phrase is found most frequently in news and media sources, reflecting its role in highlighting significant concerns. In conclusion, "real worry" effectively conveys a sense of genuine unease when used appropriately.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

genuine concern

Emphasizes the sincerity and authenticity of the worry.

legitimate concern

Highlights that the worry is based on valid reasons.

serious apprehension

Indicates a significant level of unease and anticipation of potential problems.

grave concern

Implies a deep and significant level of worry.

cause for alarm

Suggests that the situation warrants immediate attention and concern.

reason for anxiety

Focuses on the anxiety that the situation provokes.

well-founded fear

Stresses that the fear is based on solid evidence or reasoning.

matter of concern

Positions the issue as something that needs attention and consideration.

troubling issue

Highlights the problematic nature of the situation causing the worry.

significant anxiety

Emphasizes the considerable level of anxiety involved.

FAQs

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

You can use "real worry" to express genuine concern about a situation. For example, "The lack of funding for education is a "real worry" for parents".

What are some alternatives to "real worry"?

Alternatives include "genuine concern", "serious apprehension", or "cause for alarm", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "real worry", or is it acceptable English?

It's perfectly acceptable and common in English. The word "real" emphasizes the genuineness or significance of the worry. According to Ludwig, it is correct and usable in written English.

What makes something a "real worry" compared to just a "worry"?

Adding "real" suggests that the worry is substantial, justified, and not merely a fleeting or minor concern. It implies that there are concrete reasons or evidence to support the feeling of worry.