troubling

adjective

trou·​bling ˈtrə-b(ə-)liŋ How to pronounce troubling (audio)
Synonyms of troublingnext
: 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

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
What makes this especially troubling is that the BOP has known for years that inadequate cameras hinder accountability. Walter Pavlo, Forbes.com, 27 Jan. 2026 As secretary, Noem has displayed a troubling pattern of unethical behavior. Arkansas Online, 27 Jan. 2026 But other observers, including consumer and environmental advocates, called the move a rare and troubling intervention by the governor in the dealings of a body that is largely independent from the executive branch. Christine Condon, Baltimore Sun, 26 Jan. 2026 Even more troubling, the city says that if a kiosk is broken or vandalized, drivers can still pay by scanning a QR code, which requires a smartphone. U T Readers, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for troubling

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of troubling was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Troubling.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/troubling. Accessed 30 Jan. 2026.

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