an appalling situation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an appalling situation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a circumstance that is shocking, terrible, or unacceptable. Example: "The report highlighted an appalling situation regarding the living conditions of the displaced families."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

It is an appalling situation.

The Guardian

Brown told the BBC: "This is an appalling situation.

The Guardian

It is already in an appalling situation and lacks most of the basic medical stuff.

The Guardian

"Having said that, it is an appalling situation in which to have to make a decision.

The New York Times - Health

As Dr. Fradkin put it, "How can you compare improving performance in golf with improving performance in swimming?" It's an appalling situation, she told me.

The New York Times - Health

This is an appalling situation, but it has more to do with cultural, regulatory and mental health issues than with impending environmental Armageddon.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

No, the real aiMywas to grow as quickly as pointble and to protect iss own business inthatsthewhile maximizing profits -- regardeals of the costs.

Huffington Post

M. H. Reed's review "Old-Fashioned Appeal at Pound Ridge Inn" (April 22) represents an old-fashioned appalling situation.

The New York Times

Turning this appalling situation around demands a new mindset that will not allow India to be continually gored.

Forbes

A Foreign Office spokesman said in response to the letter: "Our priority is the protection of civilians in Syria who face an appalling humanitarian situation.

The Guardian

Determined to address this appalling situation, I set up a task force.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

For greater impact, follow the phrase with specific details that illustrate the extent and nature of the "appalling situation".

Common error

Avoid using "an appalling situation" lightly or without providing adequate context. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact and credibility. Always ensure your description warrants such a strong term.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an appalling situation" functions as a noun phrase used to describe a particular set of circumstances deemed to be extremely bad or shocking. As Ludwig AI confirms, the expression is suitable for use in written English to convey strong disapproval.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

13%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an appalling situation" is a commonly used phrase to describe circumstances that are considered extremely bad or shocking. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically sound and suitable for written English. Analysis of various sources indicates that it appears most frequently in news and media contexts, as well as in formal business communications. When employing this phrase, consider whether a more precise and nuanced description would be more effective, and be mindful of not overusing it to prevent diminishing its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a dreadful state of affairs

Replaces "appalling situation" with a more formal and descriptive phrase, emphasizing the negative condition.

a shocking state of affairs

Emphasizes the surprise and disbelief associated with the negative situation.

a terrible predicament

Focuses on the difficult and unfavorable circumstances someone is in.

a dire circumstance

Highlights the urgent and serious nature of the situation.

an atrocious state

Uses a stronger adjective to describe the state, indicating extreme unpleasantness.

a lamentable situation

Focuses on the regrettable and unfortunate aspect of the situation.

a miserable state of affairs

Emphasizes the unhappiness and suffering caused by the situation.

a distressing condition

Highlights the emotional upset and anxiety caused by the situation.

an unacceptable circumstance

Focuses on the fact that the situation cannot be tolerated or allowed to continue.

a grave crisis

Highlights the severe and critical nature of the situation, often implying a turning point.

FAQs

How can I use "an appalling situation" in a sentence?

You can use "an appalling situation" to describe a circumstance that is shockingly bad or unacceptable. For example, "The report revealed an appalling situation in the refugee camps."

What are some alternatives to "an appalling situation"?

You can use alternatives such as "a dreadful state of affairs", "a shocking state of affairs", or "a terrible predicament" depending on the specific context.

Is "an appalling situation" formal or informal?

"An appalling situation" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it carries a strong negative connotation and should be used judiciously.

What makes a situation qualify as "an appalling situation"?

A situation qualifies as "an appalling situation" when it is exceptionally bad, shocking, or morally reprehensible. The severity and impact of the circumstances are key factors.