a shocking time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a shocking time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a period or experience that is surprising or distressing in nature. Example: "The news of the sudden layoffs created a shocking time for the employees, leaving them in disbelief."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

"It's been a shocking time".

The Guardian - Sport

Police commander Doug Fryer told a radio station it was a "shocking time for everybody".

The Guardian

"It's a shocking time for a lot of Indigenous families and friends, but the gathering was good".

The Guardian

We're a bit "the menopause is ours, so hands off, you men", but also slightly: "Help me, I'm have a shocking time with this".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It's a shocking time, just wasn't good enough".

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

While the numbers above are impressive, it's important to note that Luck has been picked off 13 times and has fumbled a shocking 11 times this season, thus putting him among the league leaders in giveaways.

Huffington Post

As Kaufman puts it, the "terrible and shocking time" that was 1968 set in motion much of the good and the bad that endure today, which helps explain why a year that is four decades distant still seems so close.

The New York Times - Books

They are totally and completely wrapped up in the shocking time; they are constantly drawn back to it; they are in love with it the way you love someone who has hurt you: it will not let them go.

The Guardian - Books

We kind of live in this shocking time where 3D people are more genuine than real people.

Huffington Post

But then by 2000, after neoliberal globalisation had run its course, they were a shocking 134 times richer.

The Guardian

"They may do a shocking one-time, 50-basis-point cut," he said, using the term for hundredths of a percentage point.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a shocking time" to describe a period marked by unexpected and unsettling events. For dramatic impact, follow it with specific details illustrating the nature of the shock.

Common error

Avoid using "a shocking time" for minor inconveniences or slightly surprising events. The phrase implies a significant level of disturbance or dismay.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a shocking time" functions as a noun phrase, with "shocking" acting as a descriptive adjective modifying the noun "time". It describes a period characterized by surprise, dismay, or disturbance, as shown in the examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a shocking time" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that describes a period marked by surprise, dismay, or disturbance. Ludwig AI indicates that its usage is most prevalent in News & Media contexts. While not overly common, the phrase effectively conveys the unsettling nature of the described period. To enhance your writing, remember to reserve "a shocking time" for situations that genuinely warrant a sense of disbelief or disturbance. Consider alternatives like ""a terrible time"" or ""a distressing time"" for varying levels of intensity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a terrible time

Replaces "shocking" with a general term for severe unpleasantness or suffering.

a distressing time

Highlights the emotional pain and suffering experienced during the period.

a harrowing time

Emphasizes the distressing and traumatic nature of the period.

an awful time

Uses a more informal term for a very unpleasant or bad experience.

a traumatic time

Suggests the period caused significant emotional or psychological damage.

a scandalous time

Implies the period was marked by scandalous or morally questionable events.

a trying time

Indicates a period that tests one's endurance and patience.

a stunning time

Focuses on the amazement and possible disbelief caused by the events of the period.

a staggering time

Suggests the period was overwhelming or hard to believe due to its intensity.

a difficult time

Replaces "shocking" with a more general term for hardship and challenge.

FAQs

How can I use "a shocking time" in a sentence?

You can use "a shocking time" to describe a period filled with unexpected and disturbing events, for example: "The pandemic was a shocking time for many businesses".

What are some alternatives to "a shocking time"?

Some alternatives include "a terrible time", "a distressing time", or "a harrowing time", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a shocking time" in formal writing?

Yes, "a shocking time" can be used in formal writing, especially when describing events that caused significant distress or surprise. However, ensure the tone aligns with the overall formality of the piece.

What's the difference between "a shocking time" and "a difficult time"?

"A shocking time" emphasizes the surprise and dismay associated with the events, while "a difficult time" focuses on the challenges and hardships experienced.