adjective

worrying

Causing anxiety.

The sudden drop in water pressure is a worrying sign.

Etymology

The older physical attack became a metaphor for persistent mental disturbance. Worrying describes what causes that anxious distress.

More examples

  • The doctor notices a worrying change in her breathing.
  • It is worrying that nobody has heard from him.
  • Food prices are rising at a worrying rate.

Forms

worrying

worry noun — An anxious feeling about possible problems.

Similar words

troubling
Can suggest emotional or moral unease rather than anxiety.
alarming
Suggests a more urgent or serious cause for fear.