SpeakUp

Grammar fix

a growing concern

increasing worry (about a problem or issue)

used to describe a problem, issue, or situation that people are becoming more worried about over time, often because it is getting worse or more noticeable.

collocationC1common

Hear it in context

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

  • Cyberbullying has become a growing concern among parents and teachers in recent years.society
  • I'd say mental health is a growing concern these days, especially as more people experience stress and anxiety from work and social pressures.IELTS speaking

Fix the pattern

Pattern: a growing concern (about/for/over something)

WrongThere is a growing concern of climate change.

RightThere is a growing concern about climate change.

'Concern ABOUT / OVER something', not 'of'.

Patterna growing concern (about/for/over something)

Use it right

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff This matter represents a source of escalating apprehension.

Natural It's a growing concern.

'Escalating apprehension' is overwrought; 'growing concern' is the standard collocation.

Build natural chunks

Words that usually travel with it.

  • a growing concern about
    aboutoveramongthat

Don't confuse it

Unlike 'a major concern' (which means something is already very serious), 'a growing concern' emphasizes the increase in worry or attention over time.

Try it in Daily Speak →