troubling

adjective

trou·​bling ˈtrə-b(ə-)liŋ 

: causing feelings of worry or anxiety

a troubling news report

It's not just trauma survivors who may be distracted or derailed by shocking or troubling material …

—Angus Johnston

troublingly adverb

Synonyms of troubling

• disturbing
• unsettling
• frightening

Examples of troubling in a Sentence

the most troubling sign of all is that he's stopped returning my phone calls

Recent Examples on the Web

Megan Romer, a DSA national co-chair and ordained ruling elder within the Presbyterian Church (USA), conceded socialism is a troubling concept for some people of faith. — ABC News, 31 July 2026

This is troubling and may disqualify them from state scholarships and vouchers. — Lauren Costantino, Miami Herald, 31 July 2026

But repeatedly rationalizing troubling information and warning signs is different. — Kathy Caprino, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026

Evidence displayed at the preliminary hearing greatly expanded on that document, providing a lengthy and troubling account of Burke and Hernandez’s relationship. — Richard Winton, Los Angeles Times, 29 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for troubling

• bubbling
• doubling
• redoubling