What is alarming? Pronunciation and usage in English

alarming means . Learn how to pronounce and use alarming through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of alarming

alarmingadjective

/əˈlɑːmɪŋ/
Definition & pronunciation of alarming

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "alarming." It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllables:

  • The word "alarming" has three syllables: al - arm - ing

2. Pronunciation Guide:

  • al: Pronounced like "al" as in "alarm" (short "a" sound) – /æl/
  • arm: Pronounced like "arm" (as in the body part) – /ɑːrm/ (The "r" is slightly rolled, but not overly pronounced. Think of a very soft, light "r".)
  • ing: Pronounced like "ing" as in "sing" – /ɪŋ/

3. Combined Pronunciation:

Putting it all together, it sounds like: al-arm-ing /æl ɑːrm ɪŋ/

4. Tips & Subtle Nuances:

  • The "a" in "al": Keep it short and sharp, like the "a" in "apple." Don't say it like the "a" in "father."
  • The "r" in "arm": As mentioned, a very light, almost unpronounced "r." It's more of a vocalization that connects the "a" and "rm" – almost a "rh" sound.
  • The "ing" sound: This is a standard "ing" sound (as in "sing").

Resources for Hearing it:

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Usage and examples with the word alarming in English

Let's break down how to use the word "alarming" in English. It's a versatile word that describes something that causes worry or concern. Here's a breakdown of its usage:

1. Core Meaning:

  • Meaning: "Alarming" means causing alarm; shocking or distressing. It describes something that suggests something bad or dangerous might happen.

2. How to Use It – Different Contexts:

  • As an Adjective (Describing something): This is the most common usage.

    • Example: “The rising sea levels are alarming.” (This describes a situation – rising sea levels – as causing worry.)
    • Example: “The doctor's report was alarming; he said her condition was worsening rapidly.” (This describes a report as causing worry.)
    • Example: “The news of the layoffs was alarming to many employees.” (Describes the news as causing worry.)

  • As a Verb (Describing an action or event): Less common, but still valid.

    • Example: “The spiking rates of violent crime are alarming officials.” (Describes the rates of crime as causing worry and prompting action.)
    • Example: “His constant anxiety is alarming to his family.” (Describes his anxiety as causing worry.)

3. Synonyms (Words with similar meanings):

  • Concerning
  • Worrying
  • Disturbing
  • Troublesome
  • Concerning
  • Grave
  • Serious

4. Phrases Using “Alarming”:

  • Alarming trends: This refers to a pattern of events that are concerning. (e.g., "Alarming trends in global warming.")
  • Alarming statistics: Numbers that suggest a serious problem.
  • An alarming increase: A significant and worrying rise.
  • Alarmingly: Used as an adverb to intensify the feeling. (e.g., “The storm is moving alarmingly quickly.”)

5. Nuances and Tone:

  • Severity: “Alarming” suggests a more serious concern than simply “interesting” or “odd.” It implies something potentially dangerous or problematic.
  • Emotional Response: It conveys a sense of worry, fear, or unease.

6. Examples in Sentences (Variety):

  • "The police received an alarming number of reports of suspicious activity."
  • "Scientists are issuing an alarming warning about the potential effects of plastic pollution on marine life."
  • "The patient's vital signs were alarming, requiring immediate medical attention."
  • "The government’s response to the economic crisis was alarming in its lack of action."
  • “He watched the news with alarming concern about the political situation.”

Resources for Further Learning:

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Synonyms for the word alarming

Practice with vocabulary alarming

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The sudden rise in unemployment rates is __________, prompting immediate government action.
  2. Her ability to remain calm in stressful situations is truly __________.
  3. The __________ increase in air pollution has become a major concern for environmentalists.
  4. His response to the crisis was __________, earning praise from his colleagues.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which word best describes a situation causing concern or fear?
    a) Alarming
    b) Exciting
    c) Comforting

  2. Choose the synonym for "worrying" from the options below:
    a) Alarming
    b) Encouraging
    c) Reassuring

  3. Select the word that fits the sentence: "The __________ news about the hurricane forced residents to evacuate."
    a) Alarming
    b) Relaxing
    c) Predictable

  4. Which word does not convey a sense of urgency or concern?
    a) Alarming
    b) Reassuring
    c) Distressing

  5. Pick the word that best replaces "concerning" in this sentence: "The report highlighted __________ trends in global temperatures."
    a) Alarming
    b) Inspiring
    c) Comforting

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The escalating crime rates are causing widespread concern.
  2. It’s very worrying that the project is behind schedule.
  3. The team’s progress has been consistently steady and reliable.

Answer:

Exercise 1:

  1. alarming
  2. admirable
  3. alarming
  4. commendable

Exercise 2:

  1. a) Alarming
  2. a) Alarming
  3. a) Alarming
  4. b) Reassuring
  5. a) Alarming

Exercise 3:

  1. The escalating crime rates are alarming.
  2. It’s alarming that the project is behind schedule.
  3. The team’s progress has been consistently steady and positive.

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