this is a worrying development

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of the sentence "this is a worrying development" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this sentence when something is happening or has happened that causes concern or apprehension. For example, "This latest news about rising unemployment is a worrying development."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

This is a worrying development.

Computer Law & Security Review

Indeed it is, but this is a worrying development which carries a two-fold danger in the longer term.

The Guardian - Sport

This is a worrying development in the long run because it only works for certain types of books.

The Guardian

"They are turning the technology that should liberate the press, against the press -- this is a worrying development," Mr. Mahoney said.

The New York Times

To Boyd and any other authors who don't think this is a worrying development: when we're reading, this is the only time we don't want, or expect, to be sold to.

Independent

"This is a worrying development for Windows Phone because it suggests that Rovio does not have much confidence in its future," Richard Windsor, an analyst with Nomura, wrote Friday in a report.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

For Pahwa, this was a worrying development.

The Guardian - Tech

Mick McAteer of the Financial Inclusion Centre said this was a worrying development.

The Guardian - Money

"In light of the extraordinary powers abrogating civil rights which may be exercised by the crime commission, this difference is a worrying development.

The Guardian

It is a worrying development.

The Guardian

The impacts of such dams are not always clear, but their existence, and with foreign support, is a worrying development for Egypt.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "this is a worrying development", be specific about what aspect of the development is causing concern. Providing context enhances clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "this is a worrying development" as a vague statement. Always clarify why the development is worrying to avoid ambiguity and strengthen your argument.

Linguistic Context

"This is a worrying development" functions as an evaluative statement. It expresses concern or apprehension about a particular event or situation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this is a worrying development" is a versatile phrase used to express concern about emerging events or trends. As Ludwig AI points out, it's grammatically sound and suitable for various contexts, especially in news and professional settings. When using this phrase, provide specific context to amplify its impact. Consider alternative phrases like "this is a "concerning trend"" or "this is a "reason for concern"" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this is a worrisome trend

Uses worrisome as a synonym of worrying, referring to a recurrent pattern.

this is a reason for concern

Offers a more direct and straightforward expression of worry.

this is a troubling situation

Focuses on the problematic nature of the circumstance.

this is a concerning trend

Substitutes "development" with "trend", focusing on the pattern rather than a specific event.

this is a disturbing sign

Replaces "worrying" with "disturbing" and "development" with "sign", emphasizing unease.

this is cause for alarm

Uses a more emphatic phrase to highlight the severity of the concern.

this is a regrettable turn of events

Focuses on the unfortunate nature of the unfolding situation.

this is a serious issue

Highlights the gravity of the situation, framing it as a problem that needs attention.

this is an ominous indicator

Emphasizes a negative future outlook by using the word ominous.

this is a grave matter

Emphasizes the seriousness of the situation by using more formal language.

FAQs

How can I use "this is a worrying development" in a sentence?

Use "this is a worrying development" to express concern about a new event or trend. For instance, "The increasing frequency of cyberattacks is a worrying development."

What are some alternatives to "this is a worrying development"?

You can use alternatives like "this is a "concerning trend"", "this is a "disturbing sign"", or "this is a "reason for concern"" depending on the context.

Is "this is a worrying development" formal or informal?

The phrase "this is a worrying development" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it's often found in news and professional settings.

What makes something a "worrying development"?

A "worrying development" is an event or situation that causes concern or apprehension because it suggests potential negative consequences or future problems.