realistic concern

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "realistic concern" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing worries or issues that are grounded in reality and are considered valid or reasonable. Example: "The rising temperatures and extreme weather patterns are a realistic concern for our community's future."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

There's a realistic concern on his part that that would be an issue in New York.

The New York Times - Sports

This is a far more specific and, in my view, more realistic concern than the others described above.

The New York Times

While Congress or the I.R.S. could indeed confound the plans being made this year, a more realistic concern might be people who try to use various legal structures to push for even more than they are being given.

The New York Times

Mr. Rumsfeld said the Pentagon believed that several nations that support international terrorists have either developed or are trying to acquire chemical, biological or nuclear weapons, and that the dissemination of those weapons seemed a realistic concern.

The New York Times

But even if machines are closely monitored by polling staff a condition that's far from universal a more realistic concern may be innocent bugs that miscount or ignore votes.

Forbes

Reducing child-to-adult ratios increases personnel costs, leading to the realistic concern that fewer children will be served because of increased costs to parents or to public entities.

International Journal of Child Care and Education Policy

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

The program simulates such realistic concerns as tire wear and the loose and tight handling of a racecar.

The New York Times - Sports

"This is the fifth-largest economy in the world," she said, "and there are no realistic concerns about payment".

The New York Times

He was dismissive of realistic concerns that the law endangers women who develop life- or health-threatening medical problems late in pregnancy and that severe fetal abnormalities sometimes cannot be diagnosed before 20 weeks.

The New York Times

These actions can place the board on a much more slippery slope, but they're realistic concerns — we see them every day in the news, on the Internet and (unfortunately) on Comedy Central.

The New York Times

I've realistic concerns.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "realistic concern", ensure the concern is genuinely based on factual evidence and not merely speculation. Provide context to illustrate the basis of the concern.

Common error

Avoid using "realistic concern" to overstate minor issues. Ensure the magnitude of the concern aligns with the potential impact of the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "realistic concern" functions as a noun phrase, where 'realistic' modifies the noun 'concern'. It describes a worry or issue that is grounded in reality and considered valid. Ludwig AI confirms this with examples showing its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "realistic concern" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that signifies a worry or apprehension grounded in reality. Ludwig AI's analysis of various sources indicates its versatility, appearing in news, scientific publications, and other contexts. While it's not the most common phrase, it effectively conveys the validity of a concern based on factual evidence. Alternatives like "legitimate worry" or "well-founded apprehension" can be used for semantic variation. Remember to use this phrase when describing concerns that are based on real evidence and avoid exaggerating minor issues.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

legitimate worry

Emphasizes the validity and justification of the concern.

well-founded apprehension

Highlights that the concern is based on solid evidence or reasoning.

valid fear

Focuses on the fear aspect of the concern, suggesting a sense of danger or threat.

justifiable anxiety

Indicates that the anxiety is reasonable and warranted given the circumstances.

genuine apprehension

Stresses the sincerity and authenticity of the apprehension.

real worry

A more concise alternative, simply highlighting the genuineness of the concern.

actual cause for alarm

Suggests the situation warrants a high degree of concern and immediate attention.

credible threat

Focuses on potential danger, suggesting it is based on believable or reliable evidence.

practical reservation

Highlights the concern related to the feasibility or practicality of something.

tangible risk

Emphasizes the existence of a concrete and measurable risk.

FAQs

How can I use "realistic concern" in a sentence?

You can use "realistic concern" to describe a worry or fear that is based on real facts and potential consequences. For example, "Climate change is a "realistic concern" for coastal communities".

What's a good alternative to "realistic concern"?

Alternatives to "realistic concern" include "legitimate worry", "well-founded apprehension", or "valid fear". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "realistic concern" formal or informal?

"Realistic concern" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, making it versatile for various writing styles.

What distinguishes "realistic concern" from a general worry?

"Realistic concern" implies a worry grounded in facts and evidence, unlike a general worry that might be based on speculation or anxiety. It suggests the "realistic concern" is justified.