this unwelcome development

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this unwelcome development" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a situation or change that is not desired or is viewed negatively. Example: "The announcement of the layoffs was this unwelcome development that no one had anticipated."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

The government has done almost nothing to prepare Serbs for this unwelcome development.

The Economist

In the meantime we will monitor the situation closely and await the government's response to this unwelcome development".

The Guardian - Business

The CFF fought this unwelcome development with an all-colour policy – British TV was largely mono until 1970, and colour sets did not reach a majority until the late 70s.

The Guardian - Film

This unwelcome development should not come as a surprise since the dual factors that contributed to the success over the last decade -- the decline in sexual initiation and more effective use of contraception, including condoms, have both leveled off since the late '90s.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

This is an unwelcome development, particularly given the importance of Koroma's personal integrity and commitment to rule of law in encouraging greater investor and donor confidence.

The Guardian

To other European leaders, monarchs almost to a man (or woman), this was an unwelcome development; faced with their opposition, France sorely needed to assert the health and robustness of its new regime.

The New York Times - Books

Looking at Mark Mardell's blog, this is a most unwelcome development.

BBC

But according to Mark McIntyre, the association's manager, the extension of the bike path has blown their cover, a not entirely unwelcome development in this time of cutbacks.

The New York Times

The accident with the Airbus boom is "an unwelcome development at this stage in the competition," said Richard L. Aboulafia, an aviation consultant at the Teal Group in Fairfax, Va.

The New York Times

For many Yemenis, accustomed to living in the midst of turmoil, this was not necessarily an unwelcome development, though the Houthis have plenty of enemies and we may yet see a fight-back.

The Guardian - Opinion

For a Mayor who preaches the gospel of lean government, privatization and keeping power and responsibility as close to the grass roots as possible, this is a strange and unwelcome development.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "this unwelcome development", ensure the context clearly establishes what 'this' refers to. Providing specific details beforehand will enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "this unwelcome development" without clearly defining its boundaries. Overly broad use can confuse readers, so be specific about what you consider unwelcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this unwelcome development" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a specific situation or event considered undesirable. As indicated by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and commonly used to describe negative changes or occurrences.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this unwelcome development" is a grammatically sound and readily understood phrase used to denote a specific, undesirable event or situation. According to Ludwig, the phrase is perfectly acceptable. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, its communicative purpose is to express concern or disapproval. For enhanced clarity, ensure the context establishes precisely what 'this' refers to. While versatile, alternative expressions like "this unfortunate occurrence" or "this regrettable incident" can provide nuanced meanings. Ultimately, "this unwelcome development" serves as a straightforward and effective means of highlighting negative changes in various scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this unfortunate occurrence

Replaces 'unwelcome development' with a more general term for an unlucky event.

this regrettable incident

Emphasizes the feeling of sorrow or disappointment associated with the development.

this unfavorable turn of events

Highlights the change in circumstances that is not positive.

this disappointing situation

Focuses on the letdown or dissatisfaction caused by the development.

this undesirable outcome

Emphasizes that the result of something is not wanted or liked.

this adverse circumstance

Indicates a condition or situation that causes trouble or difficulty.

this problematic issue

Highlights the challenges or difficulties associated with the development.

this setback

Concisely describes the development as a hindrance to progress.

this blow

Implies a sudden and negative impact caused by the development.

this challenge

Presents the development as a difficult task or problem that needs to be addressed.

FAQs

How can I use "this unwelcome development" in a sentence?

You can use "this unwelcome development" to refer to a situation or change that is not desired or viewed negatively. For example, "The unexpected budget cuts were "this unwelcome development" that affected the entire department."

What are some alternatives to saying "this unwelcome development"?

Alternatives include "this unfortunate occurrence", "this regrettable incident", or "this disappointing situation", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "this unwelcome development" in formal writing?

Yes, "this unwelcome development" is grammatically correct and appropriate for formal writing, particularly in news reports or analytical pieces where you need to describe a negative situation objectively.

How does "this unwelcome development" differ from "an unwelcome development"?

"This unwelcome development" refers to a specific situation already mentioned or understood in context. "An unwelcome development" introduces a new, unspecified negative situation. The use of 'this' implies a direct reference.