worrying reading

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "worrying reading" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a piece of information or data that causes concern or anxiety upon review. Example: "The latest report on climate change presents some worrying reading for future generations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

And opponents of Mr Service's damning indictment may justifiably claim that he fails to explain why communism proved so appealing to anyone at all.Nonetheless, the book remains a remarkable accomplishment, and worrying reading.

The Economist

But a recent study by the Financial Services Authority, Britain's financial regulator, makes for worrying reading.

The Economist

The Local Government Ombudsman does not keep statistics on complaints over bailiffs – but three of the past 10 Ombudsman decisions that appear under the heading "local taxation" refer to bailiffs and they make worrying reading.

Independent

This makes for worrying reading, given that up to 10% of the value of a person's estate can be absorbed in additional fees as a result of an ineffective will.

The Guardian - Money

The poll makes for worrying reading for Microsoft, with only 8% of small businesses intent on upgrading their operating system with the release of Windows 7.

TechCrunch

The charity's chief executive, Sally Lines, said that the report made for "very worrying reading and demonstrates that an enquiry into the gig economy and road safety is needed urgently".

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

Attempting 24 multiple choice questions in 45 minutes is easy, so instead of wasting time worrying, read the questions carefully.

WikiHow

We waited and we worried, reading the BabyCenter emails each week that compared our rapidly growing babies to kiwis and oranges.

HuffPost

'This is quite normal so don't worry,' read the instructions.

Independent

Don't worry," read the post on a Chinese social networking site.

The New York Times

One worries, reading the reports from Tripoli, about seeing that scenario play out again, in urban miniature.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure the context clearly indicates what specific aspects of the reading material are causing concern. Be specific in your description rather than relying solely on the phrase itself.

Common error

Avoid using "worrying reading" as a generic substitute for a more detailed explanation of the issues at hand. Instead, follow up with specific points that highlight the reasons for concern. For example, instead of just stating, "The report made for worrying reading," specify, "The report made for worrying reading, particularly the section on rising unemployment rates."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "worrying reading" functions primarily as a descriptive term. It serves to characterize a piece of written material that evokes feelings of concern, anxiety, or unease in the reader. Ludwig indicates that this usage is grammatically correct and well-established.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "worrying reading" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe written material that causes concern or anxiety. Ludwig confirms its correctness and usability. It's commonly found in news and media contexts, signaling that the information presented has potentially negative implications. While "worrying reading" is a useful phrase, it's essential to provide specific details about what makes the content worrying to avoid vagueness. Alternatives like "disquieting reading" or "alarming data" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

disquieting reading

Emphasizes the unsettling nature of the material.

alarming data

Focuses on the data aspect causing alarm.

concerning information

Highlights the informational aspect that is causing concern.

troubling report

Specifically refers to a report that is causing trouble or worry.

distressing findings

Highlights the upsetting nature of the findings.

ominous signs

Suggests that the reading material foreshadows negative events.

unsettling facts

Emphasizes the disturbing nature of the facts presented.

grave implications

Focuses on the serious consequences suggested by the reading material.

sobering statistics

Highlights the serious and thoughtful nature of the statistics.

alarming conclusions

Emphasizes the disturbing nature of the conclusions drawn.

FAQs

How can I use "worrying reading" in a sentence?

You can use "worrying reading" to describe a document or piece of information that causes concern. For example: "The financial statement made for "worrying reading" given the company's mounting debts."

What are some alternatives to "worrying reading"?

Depending on the context, alternatives include "alarming data", "concerning information", or "distressing findings".

Is it grammatically correct to say "worrying reading"?

Yes, "worrying reading" is grammatically correct. "Worrying" functions as an adjective describing the noun "reading".

What makes something "worrying reading" as opposed to just informative?

"Worrying reading" suggests that the information presented is not only informative but also raises significant concerns or anxieties about potential negative outcomes. The information is likely to cause stress or unease.