somewhat alarming

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "somewhat alarming" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that causes a moderate level of concern or worry. Example: "The recent increase in cyber attacks on small businesses is somewhat alarming to industry experts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

It's also somewhat alarming.

The New York Times - Magazine

The fact that it isn't is somewhat alarming.

The New Yorker

However, the lack of nuance in this growth focus is somewhat alarming.

The Guardian

Taken together, the message they sent was depressing and somewhat alarming.

The New Yorker

While I would like to see a woman as president, the idea that this power-crazed pair should inhabit the White House again is somewhat alarming.

The Guardian - Opinion

The producer Ron Mann, a veteran documentarian himself, encouraged her to make an ensemble movie with an all-star cast of philosophers, a prospect that was both enticing and somewhat alarming.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

Girardi acknowledged he was somewhat alarmed by the timing.

The New York Times - Sports

"That's very bizarre," Murnion said, somewhat alarmed.

The New Yorker

The apparel retailer was somewhat alarmed to discover this was going on, Mr. Simester said.

The New York Times

TEN years ago, if you had told me I would spend a significant part of my premiership on foreign policy, I would have been surprised, a little shocked and probably, politically, somewhat alarmed.

The Economist

Last week, a behind-the-scenes documentary by the Vice News website gave us a rare insight into how Jeremy Corbyn and his team prepare for PMQs – and as someone who helped prepare Ed Miliband and Harriet Harman for their appearances at the dispatch box, I was somewhat alarmed.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider your audience when using "somewhat alarming". In formal contexts, ensure it aligns with the overall tone, whereas it can be used more freely in informal settings.

Common error

Avoid using "somewhat alarming" in overly dramatic or sensationalized writing. It can dilute the impact of truly serious concerns if overused for minor issues.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "somewhat alarming" primarily functions as a qualifying adjective phrase. It modifies a noun or pronoun to indicate a moderate level of alarm or concern. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "somewhat alarming" is a grammatically sound and frequently used adjective phrase that expresses a moderate degree of concern or worry. As Ludwig AI confirms, its correctness and usability are well-established. Predominantly found in news and media, it also appears in scientific and formal business contexts. When using "somewhat alarming", it's important to consider the context and audience to ensure the level of concern aligns with the intended message. While it's a useful phrase for expressing worry without overstatement, avoid overuse in sensationalized writing. Alternatives like "slightly concerning" or "mildly disturbing" offer similar nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Moderately concerning

Emphasizes the moderate degree of worry or apprehension.

A little alarming

Uses "little" to emphasize the lack of alarm.

Slightly concerning

Emphasizes the mild degree of worry or apprehension.

Mildly disturbing

Focuses on the unsettling nature of the situation.

Kind of worrying

Uses "kind of" to emphasize the lack of worry.

Reasonably worrying

Highlights the justification for concern.

A bit unsettling

Uses a more informal tone to express a feeling of unease.

Rather disquieting

Emphasizes a loss of peace or tranquility.

Somewhat perturbing

Focuses on the disruptive or agitating nature of the situation.

Slightly frightening

Highlights the element of fear involved.

FAQs

How can I use "somewhat alarming" in a sentence?

You can use "somewhat alarming" to describe situations or trends that cause a moderate level of concern. For example, "The decrease in voter turnout is "somewhat alarming"."

What are some alternatives to "somewhat alarming"?

Alternatives include "slightly concerning", "mildly disturbing", or "reasonably worrying", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to say "somewhat alarming" or "very alarming"?

"Somewhat alarming" suggests a moderate level of concern, while "very alarming" indicates a high level of worry or danger. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the severity of the situation.

What's the difference between "somewhat alarming" and "a little alarming"?

The phrases are largely interchangeable, though "a little alarming" may come across as slightly more informal than "somewhat alarming". Both indicate a mild degree of concern.