a note of frustration

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a note of frustration" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a subtle indication or feeling of frustration in a situation or statement. Example: "In her response, there was a note of frustration that suggested she was not pleased with the outcome."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

But he sounded a note of frustration.

The New York Times

She ends the project on a note of frustration.

The New Yorker

But –" and there's a note of frustration in his voice, "there's no story there".

The Guardian - Tech

One of the first police reports, dated June 25 1935, opens on a note of frustration.

The Guardian

Mr. Norich expressed a note of frustration that knaidel was spelled that way in a nationally televised contest.

The New York Times

More often than not, the entries end on a note of frustration about bureaucracy and administrative bloat.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Lines that could sparkle are delivered with a note of grumbling frustration, giving us pure moroseness instead of black comedy.

The Guardian

In a note of apparent frustration with the de-mining groups, Senaratne added that they "should have reported [the weapons discovery] at the time of de-mining.

The Guardian

However in a statement to The Times, Nichols sounded a note of deep frustration with Wheeler.

Los Angeles Times

Other DIY signs strike a similar note of frustration with bad owners, including one in New York to "the person who doesn't clean up after your dog (including lifting him to put him into the tree boxes)".

BBC

Yet a note of panic – and frustration – has entered the government's tone as household name firms have distanced themselves from schemes that critics brand "workfare" and claim exploit unemployed people for the benefit of major corporations.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a note of frustration" to subtly convey a feeling of dissatisfaction or annoyance without being overly direct or aggressive.

Common error

Avoid using "a note of frustration" when a stronger, more direct expression of dissatisfaction is warranted. Ensure the context calls for subtlety rather than bluntness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a note of frustration" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It describes a subtle indication or expression of frustration. Ludwig AI confirms this aligns with common usage, indicating that it's grammatically correct and used to express subdued feelings.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a note of frustration" is a grammatically sound phrase used to convey a mild or subtle expression of dissatisfaction or annoyance. As Ludwig AI confirms, this expression is correct and usable in written English. It is most frequently encountered in news and media contexts, and less often in academic or encyclopedic content. Related phrases include "a hint of frustration" and "a touch of frustration". When using this phrase, ensure the context calls for a subtle expression rather than a more direct or aggressive one. While “a note of frustration” is a correct english expression, be sure that a more direct way to express yourself might be better in some situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a hint of frustration

Substitutes "note" with "hint", suggesting a slightly more subtle indication of frustration.

a touch of frustration

Replaces "note" with "touch", implying a delicate or mild expression of frustration.

a sense of frustration

Changes "note" to "sense", focusing on the feeling rather than the expression of it.

an air of frustration

Uses "air" instead of "note", indicating an atmosphere permeated by frustration.

a shade of frustration

Replaces "note" with "shade", suggesting a slight degree or tinge of frustration.

a sign of frustration

Changes "note" to "sign", highlighting an outward indication of frustration.

a feeling of frustration

Focuses on the internal emotion rather than its external manifestation.

an element of frustration

Uses "element" to describe frustration as a component of a situation or statement.

a degree of frustration

Highlights the intensity or extent of the frustration.

an undercurrent of frustration

Implies a latent or underlying feeling of frustration that is not immediately obvious.

FAQs

How can I use "a note of frustration" in a sentence?

You can use "a note of frustration" to indicate a subtle expression of annoyance or dissatisfaction, such as "There was "a note of frustration" in her voice when she described the delays."

What are some alternatives to "a note of frustration"?

Alternatives include "a hint of frustration", "a touch of frustration", or "a sense of frustration", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a note of frustration" in formal writing?

Yes, "a note of frustration" is suitable for formal writing as it conveys a controlled and subtle expression of negative sentiment, often preferred in professional contexts.

What's the difference between "a note of frustration" and "outright anger"?

"A note of frustration" indicates a mild or suppressed annoyance, while "outright anger" signifies a strong and overt expression of displeasure. The former is more subtle and restrained.