a heightened state

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a heightened state" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an elevated level of awareness, emotion, or condition, often in contexts related to psychology, health, or experiences. Example: "After the meditation session, I found myself in a heightened state of relaxation and clarity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In the article "A Heightened State of Anxiety" (Oct.

The New York Times

Right now we're on a heightened state of alert.

The New York Times

This is a hormone associated with a heightened state of alarm.

The Guardian

"We're in a heightened state of awareness," said R-CISC's Engle.

The Washington Post

The spokeswoman said: "There is a heightened state of security since the London bombings.

The New York Times

He calls for a "heightened state of vigilance in the Boston area".

The Guardian

And oil companies have already been operating on a heightened state of alert.

The New York Times

Mr Siemoniak has also stated that the Polish armed forces are not in a heightened state of alert.

The Economist

But yawning doesn't just relax you it quickly brings you into a heightened state of cognitive awareness.

University of Pennsylvania

American travelers abroad, US embassies, businesses and military installations were all in a heightened state of alert.

Harvard University

Before my husband got round to proposing, I'd often spend Valentine's Day in a heightened state of romantic anxiety.

The Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a heightened state", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being elevated, intensified, or enhanced. For instance, specify "a heightened state of awareness" or "a heightened state of alert" to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid embedding "a heightened state" within overly complex sentences. This can dilute the phrase's impact and obscure your intended meaning. Simplify the sentence structure to maintain clarity and emphasis.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a heightened state" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the object of a preposition or a subject complement. It describes a condition or situation that is elevated or intensified beyond its normal level. Ludwig's examples show it used to describe security levels, emotional states, and physical conditions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a heightened state" is a commonly used phrase that denotes an elevated or intensified condition. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in various contexts, from security alerts to emotional states. Its frequency is 'very common', predominantly appearing in news and media sources, with notable use in academic and scientific writing as well. When using the phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what aspect is heightened. Consider alternatives like "an elevated condition" or "an intensified situation" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an elevated condition

This alternative focuses on the increased level of a state, emphasizing its superior position.

an intensified situation

This phrase underscores the increased intensity or strength of a situation.

an amplified sense

This version highlights the expansion and magnification of a sensory experience or feeling.

an acute awareness

This suggests a sharper, more perceptive state of understanding or consciousness.

an advanced level

This implies a more developed or progressed stage of a condition or ability.

a magnified reality

This depicts a reality that is enlarged or exaggerated, often emotionally or perceptually.

a refined perception

This suggests a more subtle and sophisticated understanding or awareness.

an optimized state

This refers to a state that has been improved to function at its best.

an awakened consciousness

This emphasizes a newly active and aware state of mind.

an energized condition

This phrase conveys a state filled with increased vigor and activity.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "a heightened state" in a sentence?

To effectively use "a heightened state", ensure that you clearly specify what is being heightened, such as "a heightened state of awareness" or "a heightened state of alert". This provides clarity and context.

What are some alternatives to using "a heightened state"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "an elevated condition", "an intensified situation", or "an amplified sense".

Is "a heightened state of alert" the same as "a high alert"?

"A heightened state of alert" and "a high alert" are similar, but "a heightened state of alert" suggests a more gradual increase in alertness, whereas "a high alert" implies a more immediate and critical situation.

Can "a heightened state" be used in both formal and informal writing?

While "a heightened state" is generally suitable for both formal and informal writing, consider the specific context. In highly formal settings, more precise language might be preferred, while in informal contexts, it's perfectly acceptable.