unsettling development

noun phrase

UK /ʌnˈsɛt.lɪŋ dɪˈvɛl.əp.mənt/

US /ʌnˈsɛt.lɪŋ dɪˈvɛl.əp.mənt/

A new thing that happens and makes people feel worried or uneasy.

The sudden storm was an unsettling development for the campers.

SYNONYMS

worrying turn disturbing change troubling event alarming twist

RELATED WORDS

setback complication surprise concern

OTHER MEANINGS

2. A change in a situation that makes it less certain or stable.

The team's loss was an unsettling development for their playoff hopes.

3. A piece of news that causes anxiety or discomfort.

The report of a new virus was an unsettling development for the town.

4. A gradual change that disrupts normal expectations.

The slow rise in prices was an unsettling development for shoppers.