a bit appalling

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a bit appalling" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express mild shock or disapproval regarding a situation or behavior. Example: "The lack of response from the authorities was a bit appalling, considering the urgency of the matter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Chang-wook looks at her in surprise, she calls him childish, and Kim announces, "This is fun" — and it is, even if it's also a bit appalling.

The New York Times

Dr. Kenneth E. Warner, dean of the school of public health at the University of Michigan and a national antitobacco leader, said, "I find it frankly a bit appalling that the chancellor of a major medical center would have held such stock.

The New York Times

"It is a bit appalling.

Huffington Post

I'm not sure how Matthews gets from "some" people being "susceptible to torture" to Orwell's Room 101 at the Ministry of Love, which existed to prove that everyone is susceptible to torture, but I'd allow that it's a bit appalling to see this logic being applied as an affirmative defense of torture.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

These activities are still crimes, but the authorities now turn a blind eye.On Mr Khatami's watch, Iran's human-rights record has become a bit less appalling.

The Economist

It is not appalling, but it is certainly a bit rough.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

E-mail address GO SIGN UP Share Tweet These appalling, glorious details will fade a bit in the next few days, as the playoffs and the World Series take over, but not of course, in New England.

The New Yorker

For the most part, critics were pleased with it as well: "Appalling, entertaining, touching and perhaps even a bit healing," wrote Tom Long of the Detroit News.

Huffington Post

"It's been a bit of a nightmare for our staff - the conditions yesterday were absolutely appalling but they've made some inroads," he said.

BBC

Why she chose to do that is a bit baffling in light of the portrait she painted of government officials abusing the public trust, exhibiting appalling judgment and apparently perjuring themselves during the investigation.

The New York Times

If not, unleashing demand will simply fuel appalling inflationWill there be continued progress towards allowing the market actually to determine prices rather than just influence bureaucrats a bit?

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a bit appalling", ensure the context clearly indicates what specific aspect you find appalling. This adds clarity and strengthens your critique.

Common error

While "a bit appalling" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in highly formal writing. Opt for more precise and sophisticated vocabulary to convey your disapproval or shock.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a bit appalling" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun by expressing a degree of disapproval or shock. Ludwig's examples show it used to describe situations and behaviors.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a bit appalling" is a grammatically sound and usable expression used to convey a sense of mild shock or disapproval. While Ludwig confirms its correctness, the tool suggests that the phrase is most commonly found within News & Media. When using "a bit appalling", consider the context and audience to ensure the tone remains appropriate; more formal settings may warrant alternatives such as "somewhat shocking" or "rather disturbing". Overall, the term effectively communicates a nuanced negative judgment.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

somewhat shocking

Emphasizes the surprising nature, shifting the focus from inherent badness to the unexpected impact.

slightly horrifying

Highlights the capacity to inspire intense fear and shock.

rather dreadful

Indicates a higher level of unpleasantness and poor quality.

kind of awful

Offers a less formal expression of negativity and poor quality.

a tad disturbing

Focuses more on the unsettling or disquieting nature of something.

a little disconcerting

Emphasizes the capacity to make one feel confused or slightly worried.

mildly outrageous

Highlights the quality of being offensive or unacceptable.

somewhat objectionable

Indicates something that is likely to cause disapproval or protest.

marginally offensive

Reduces the strength of disapproval, pointing to minimal harm.

slightly unpleasant

Uses a milder term that tones down the expression of distaste or negativity.

FAQs

How can I use "a bit appalling" in a sentence?

You can use "a bit appalling" to express mild shock or disapproval. For example, "His behavior at the party was "a bit appalling", considering his position".

What's a more formal alternative to "a bit appalling"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "somewhat shocking", "rather disturbing", or "slightly horrifying".

Is it correct to say "a little appalling" instead of "a bit appalling"?

Yes, "a little appalling" is a synonymous and acceptable alternative to "a bit appalling".

When should I avoid using "a bit appalling"?

Avoid using "a bit appalling" in highly formal or academic writing where a more precise and sophisticated vocabulary might be more appropriate.