all too frequent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "all too frequent" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that happens more often than desired or expected, often with a negative connotation. Example: "The all too frequent delays in public transportation have frustrated many commuters."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

Condescension by well-intentioned if misguided celebrities towards Africa is an all too frequent feature of popular culture.

The Guardian

It is an all too frequent criticism of a monthly "circus" now drawing to an end of TUC, Lib Dem, Labour and Conservative conferences.

The Guardian - Opinion

According to the Wildlife Trusts, which freely advises owners how to better manage their special sites, such mistakes are all too frequent.

The Guardian - Opinion

Given the all too frequent reminders that these chances are all too limited, see Willie Nelson now.

Huffington Post

Roof's outrage revived my memories of that racial animosity as do the all too frequent reports of police shooting unarmed blacks for no apparent reason.

Huffington Post

This piece, though, is based off of my all too frequent interactions with non-book reading men who could care less about this dying art form.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

For a utility player who has worked hard to keep a job, freakish accidents have been an all-too frequent companion.

The New York Times - Sports

Leave that aside and take a moment to look at the USA and its chronic addiction to guns and its all-too frequent mass shootings.

Vice

Candlelight vigils in the wake of our all-too frequent mass killings are just the first baby step of a thousand-mile journey.

Huffington Post

"We see that reality on an all-too-frequent basis.

The New York Times

My particular favorite is the all-too-frequent comment, "Boy, you look thinner in person".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "all too frequent" to express concern or disapproval about the repeated occurrence of something, especially when it has negative consequences. It adds emphasis and nuance compared to simply saying "frequent".

Common error

While acceptable, using "all too frequent" repeatedly in formal documents can make your writing sound melodramatic. Opt for alternatives like "excessively common" or "undesirably frequent" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "all too frequent" functions as an adverbial modifier, emphasizing the high and undesirable frequency of an event or situation. As Ludwig AI underlines, it's commonly used to express concern or disapproval about repeated occurrences.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

20%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "all too frequent" is a versatile phrase used to express that something occurs more often than is desirable, often carrying a negative connotation. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. It's prevalent in news and media, as well as scientific contexts, and is considered to have a neutral register. While generally acceptable, overuse in highly formal contexts should be avoided. Consider alternatives like "excessively common" or "overly common" to fine-tune your writing style.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

too often

A more concise way of expressing that something happens more than desired.

excessively common

Replaces "all too frequent" with a simpler adjective-based expression, emphasizing prevalence.

overly common

Similar to "excessively common", but with a slightly stronger sense of disapproval.

far too common

Strengthens the idea that the frequency is excessive.

undesirably frequent

More explicitly states that the frequency is not wanted or welcome.

regrettably common

Highlights the negative consequences or feelings associated with the frequency.

all the more common

Highlights the degree to which something is common, often unexpectedly.

distressingly common

Emphasizes the troubling or worrying nature of the frequency.

increasingly common

Focuses on the trend of something becoming more frequent over time.

with unwelcome regularity

Emphasizes the repetitive and unwanted nature of the occurrence.

FAQs

How can I use "all too frequent" in a sentence?

You can use "all too frequent" to describe something that occurs more often than desired, usually with negative connotations. For example: "The "all too frequent delays" frustrated the passengers."

What are some alternatives to "all too frequent"?

Alternatives include "excessively common", "overly common", or simply "too often". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired tone.

Is it correct to say "all-too-frequent" with hyphens?

Yes, "all-too-frequent" is also correct, especially when used as a compound adjective before a noun (e.g., "all-too-frequent delays"). However, "all too frequent" without hyphens is also widely accepted.

What's the difference between "all too frequent" and "very frequent"?

"All too frequent" implies a negative judgment about the high frequency of something. "Very frequent" simply indicates that something happens often, without necessarily conveying disapproval.