worrying
12 synonyms for worrying, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Causing anxiety or concern.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. adj
Causing anxiety or concern.
“The doctor said the test results were nothing worrying at all.”
2. noun
The act of feeling or causing anxiety.
“Constant worrying kept her awake for most of the night.”
Etymology
Formed from worry and -ing.
Full origin of worrying →Frequently asked questions
What does “worrying” mean?
The word “worrying” means causing anxiety or concern. In plain terms, something that gives cause for concern.
How do you pronounce “worrying”?
“Worrying” is pronounced WUH-ree-ihng (/ˈwʌɹi.ɪŋ/ in IPA).
How do you use “worrying” in a sentence?
Here is “worrying” used in a sentence: “The report paints a worrying picture of the local economy.”
What part of speech is “worrying”?
Depending on how it is used, “worrying” can be an adjective and a noun.
Is “worrying” a common word?
“Worrying” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “worrying” have?
“Worrying” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: causing anxiety or concern.
What is the difference between worrying and worried?
'Worrying' describes something that causes anxiety, as in 'a worrying situation.' 'Worried' describes the person who feels that anxiety, as in 'I am worried.' In short, a worrying event makes you worried.
What is the difference between worrying and concerning?
Both mean causing anxiety or concern, and they often overlap. 'Worrying' tends to feel slightly stronger and more emotional, while 'concerning' can sound a little more measured or formal. Either works to describe news or trends that trouble people.
When should you use worrying instead of troubling?
Use 'worrying' when you want to stress the anxiety or unease something causes, especially in British English where it is very common. Use 'troubling' when you want a slightly more serious or reflective tone. Both describe things that disturb the mind, but 'worrying' is more everyday.
