a feeling of emptiness

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a feeling of emptiness" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an emotional state where someone feels a lack of fulfillment or purpose. Example: "After the project ended, she was left with a feeling of emptiness that she couldn't shake off."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

You have a feeling of emptiness.

The New York Times

Borderline personality disorder is characterized by poor self-image, a feeling of emptiness, and great difficulty coping with being alone.

Harvard University

Small things in the galleries, she said, "tend to disappear on the walls; to leave a feeling of emptiness.

The New York Times - Arts

What would otherwise have been a wonderful moment shared between players and supporters instead conveyed a feeling of emptiness.

The Guardian - Sport

ALITTLE less than 24 hours after winning her fifth and final Olympic medal, Marion Jones was still searching for the word to describe a feeling of emptiness.

The New York Times - Sports

"People who have despised Megyn Kelly for years are experiencing a sudden loss of identity and a feeling of emptiness," he said.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

It's a feeling of clarified emptiness, of deep, muted joy.

The New Yorker

Justin Riley, 28, said he had begun experimenting with painkillers in third grade to compensate for a feeling of emotional emptiness.

The New York Times

The inevitable disillusionment that follows can generate self hatred... and a feeling of inner emptiness.

HuffPost

The song is as downcast as its title suggests, utilizing the full sonic spectrum yet still leaving the listener with a feeling of corrosive emptiness.

Vice

"I see myself as a snowman, with a carrot nose, stood in a vast field of pristine snow, all of which suddenly melts, as then do I, my nose falling off and leaving me with a feeling of profound emptiness…" "This is about fertility anxiety: the carrot is your penis…".

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing "a feeling of emptiness", be specific about its cause or context. Instead of simply stating the feeling, elaborate on what events or circumstances might be contributing to it.

Common error

Avoid using "a feeling of emptiness" as a catch-all phrase for various negative emotions. Try to pinpoint the more precise emotion, such as loneliness, disappointment, or grief, for greater impact and clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a feeling of emptiness" functions as a noun phrase, specifically describing an emotional state. Ludwig AI confirms that it is used to express a sense of lacking fulfillment, purpose, or emotional connection. Examples in Ludwig illustrate its use in various contexts, from personal loss to broader existential themes.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Academia

10%

Science

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a feeling of emptiness" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe a subjective emotional state characterized by a lack of fulfillment or purpose. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and offers examples from various reputable sources, including news media and academic publications. While the phrase is versatile, it's essential to use it with specificity and avoid overgeneralization, and to consider alternatives like "a sense of void" or "a sense of hollowness" for nuanced expression. The phrase appears most frequently in news and media, reflecting its relevance in discussing personal experiences and broader social issues. Its neutral register makes it appropriate for diverse contexts, from personal writing to professional discussions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sense of void

Focuses on the absence of something, like a hollow space.

a sense of hollowness

Suggests a lack of substance or depth.

a state of desolation

Emphasizes loneliness and abandonment.

a void within

Highlights the internal, personal nature of the emptiness.

an absence of fulfillment

Points to a lack of satisfaction or purpose.

an inner void

Like "a void within", it underscore the internality and psychological impact of the emptiness.

a lack of purpose

Directly addresses the absence of meaning or direction.

an emotional void

Specifically identifies the emptiness as an emotional state.

a profound sadness

Connects the feeling of emptiness to a deep emotional state.

existential angst

Refers to a philosophical anxiety about existence and meaning.

FAQs

How can "a feeling of emptiness" be described more specifically?

You can use more descriptive phrases like "a sense of void", "a sense of hollowness", or "an absence of fulfillment" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. See more alternatives "here".

What causes "a feeling of emptiness"?

The feeling can arise from various causes, including loss, lack of purpose, or emotional detachment. Identifying the root cause can help in addressing the feeling effectively.

Is "a feeling of emptiness" a symptom of a mental health condition?

Yes, it can be a symptom of conditions such as depression, borderline personality disorder, or grief. If the feeling is persistent or overwhelming, seeking professional help is advisable.

How can I cope with "a feeling of emptiness"?

Strategies include engaging in meaningful activities, connecting with others, setting goals, and seeking therapy. Addressing the underlying causes is crucial for long-term relief.