What is worrying? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of worrying

worryingadjective

/ˈwʌrɪɪŋ/
Definition & pronunciation of worrying

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "worrying" in English. It's a tricky one for some! Here's a breakdown:

1. Initial Sound: "Worry"

  • "W": Pronounced like "war" – as in, "warrior."

  • "or": This is the tricky part. It's pronounced like "or" as in "more". It's not like the "ore" in "ore" (a mineral).

  • "ry": Pronounced like "ree" with a "y" sound at the end. Think of the "ry" in "cry."

    So, "worry" is pronounced: "war-ree" (rhymes with "berry")

2. The "-ing" at the End

  • The "-ing" at the end is pronounced like a long "e" sound: "ing" (as in "sing")

Putting it all together:

The whole word "worrying" is pronounced: "war-ree-ing"

Tips for Clarity:

  • Stress: The first syllable ("war") is stressed--it's the loudest and longest part of the word.
  • Listen to Native Speakers: The best way to get it right is to hear how native English speakers pronounce it. You can find plenty of examples on:
    • Google Translate: Type "worrying" and click the speaker icon.
    • Forvo: A website with pronunciations by native speakers: https://forvo.com/word/worrying/
    • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce worrying" and you'll find many videos.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you some example sentences using the word?

Usage and examples with the word worrying in English

Let's break down how to use the word "worrying" effectively in English. It's a versatile word, but it has slightly different nuances depending on how you use it.

1. As an Adjective (Describing Something):

This is the most common usage. "Worrying" describes something that causes anxiety or concern.

  • Example 1: "The news about the rising cost of living is worrying." (It’s causing concern about finances.)
  • Example 2: "His pale complexion and lack of appetite were worrying signs." (These signs indicate something is wrong with his health.)
  • Example 3: "The forecast for the storm is worrying – it could cause serious flooding." (The forecast indicates a potentially dangerous situation.)
  • Example 4: “I found his silence quite worrying; he never shuts down like that." (His behavior suggests a problem.)

2. As a Noun (Referring to a Feeling or Situation):

"Worrying" can also refer to the feeling of anxiety itself or the situation that causes it.

  • Example 1: "She’s experiencing a lot of worrying about her exams." (She's feeling anxious about her exams.)
  • Example 2: “His constant worrying is affecting his sleep.” (His anxiety is impacting his ability to sleep.)
  • Example 3: “The potential for a recession is a major worrying for businesses.” (The possibility of a recession is a major concern.)

3. Phrases Using "Worrying":

  • “It’s worrying”: A very common and versatile phrase. “It’s worrying to see so many people struggling.”
  • “I’m worrying about…”: Expressing your concerns. “I’m worrying about my sick grandmother.”
  • “A worrying trend”: Used to describe a trend that is cause for concern. “Rising crime rates are a worrying trend.”

Tips for Using "Worrying" Effectively:

  • Combine it with context: “Worrying” is most powerful when you immediately explain why something is worrying. Don’t just say “That’s worrying.” Say what is worrying.
  • Consider alternatives: Depending on the nuance you want to convey, you might consider words like:
    • Concerning: Similar to "worrying," but perhaps slightly more formal.
    • Alarming: Indicates a more serious level of concern.
    • Troubling: Suggests an unsettling or difficult situation.
    • Unsettling: Creates a feeling of discomfort or anxiety.
  • Show, don't just tell: Instead of saying “It was a worrying situation,” describe the details that made it worrying. "The rain was pouring down, the power had gone out, and his son was stranded miles away - it was a worrying situation."

Here's a quick summary table:

Part of Speech Meaning Example
Adjective Causing anxiety or concern The rising temperatures are worrying.
Noun The feeling of anxiety Her worrying about the move is exhausting.

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What are you trying to write or say? (e.g., a story, an email, an essay?)
  • What specific context are you using “worrying” in? (e.g., health, finances, relationships, the environment?)

Synonyms for the word worrying

Practice with vocabulary worrying

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The persistent __________ about the economic recession has led to a decrease in consumer spending.
  2. Her __________ about the new job interview was palpable, making her pace nervously.
  3. Many scientists find the rapid pace of climate change to be extremely __________ for future generations.
  4. The financial manager's __________ forecast for the next quarter caused some apprehension among investors.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (there may be multiple correct answers per question)

  1. The recent data on employee turnover is quite __________, indicating a need for immediate action. A) reassuring B) concerning C) alarming D) worrying E) positive

  2. She felt intensely __________ as she waited for the outcome of her visa application. A) joyful B) apprehensive C) relaxed D) indifferent E) calm

  3. The board members expressed __________ regarding the company's unexpected dip in profits this quarter. A) satisfaction B) enthusiasm C) worry D) concern E) delight

  4. Navigating the complex regulatory landscape proved to be a __________ task for the startup. A) straightforward B) simple C) challenging D) effortless E) demanding

  5. The prolonged drought in the region is a __________ issue for agricultural production. A) trivial B) comforting C) worrying D) minor E) serious

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The increasing rate of cyberattacks is a significant cause for concern among IT security experts. (Rewrite using a word form of "worry").
  2. I am anxious about the potential impact of artificial intelligence on employment. (Rewrite using "worrying").
  3. His continuous state of nervousness about meeting project deadlines was affecting his health. (Rewrite without using "worrying" or its direct synonyms, find a suitable replacement for "nervousness").

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The persistent worrying about the economic recession has led to a decrease in consumer spending.
  2. Her apprehension about the new job interview was palpable, making her pace nervously.
  3. Many scientists find the rapid pace of climate change to be extremely worrying for future generations.
  4. The financial manager's stressful forecast for the next quarter caused some apprehension among investors.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. The recent data on employee turnover is quite B) concerning, C) alarming, D) worrying, indicating a need for immediate action.
  2. She felt intensely B) apprehensive as she waited for the outcome of her visa application.
  3. The board members expressed C) worry, D) concern regarding the company's unexpected dip in profits this quarter.
  4. Navigating the complex regulatory landscape proved to be a C) challenging, E) demanding task for the startup.
  5. The prolonged drought in the region is a C) worrying, E) serious issue for agricultural production.

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The increasing rate of cyberattacks is a worrying trend among IT security experts.
  2. The potential impact of artificial intelligence on employment is worrying me.
  3. His continuous state of anxiety about meeting project deadlines was affecting his health.

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