an appalling vision

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an appalling vision" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a disturbing or shocking image or idea that evokes strong negative emotions. Example: "The documentary presented an appalling vision of the consequences of climate change, leaving viewers in disbelief."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

As the camera surveys a roadside on the outskirts of the city, it presents an appalling vision of desolation and ruin stretching mile after mile.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

It is an appalling sight.

The New Yorker

For art historians, though, the interesting question is what provided Renaissance artists with the model for this appalling vision.

BBC

In "Spectre-1914," Ms. Auclair was clearly a prophet beholding appalling visions of war as she rose tall and awesome in a black robe.

The New York Times - Arts

And head-tripping is very much part of Mr. Reygadas's cinema, whether or not he's tethered his sometimes lovely, sometimes appalling visions to a strong narrative.

The New York Times

I'm glad it will be seen here, but the fact that the Guggenheim, the Whitney and the Modern could not fit it into their schedules shows an appalling narrowness of vision.

The New York Times - Arts

An enthralling study of an appalling practice.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

This is an appalling figure.

Stanford University

That's an appalling finding.

Harvard Business Review

"Richard died an appalling death.

The Guardian

To Parfit, this is an appalling nihilism.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an appalling vision" to vividly describe something deeply disturbing or shocking, whether it's a literal sight or a metaphorical concept. This phrase is most effective when you want to evoke a strong emotional response.

Common error

Avoid using "an appalling vision" to describe minor inconveniences or slightly unpleasant situations. This phrase carries a heavy emotional weight and is best reserved for truly shocking or disturbing scenarios to maintain its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an appalling vision" functions as a noun phrase, with "appalling" acting as an adjective modifying "vision". It describes a sight or mental image that is profoundly shocking, disturbing, or horrific. Ludwig confirms its usage in expressing strong negative reactions to something seen or imagined.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Science

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an appalling vision" is a grammatically correct and evocative phrase used to describe something profoundly shocking or disturbing. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase effectively conveys strong negative emotions and is particularly suited for use in neutral to formal contexts like news reports or descriptive writing. While "an appalling vision" is less frequently used, the phrase conveys a stronger sense of horror. Related phrases like "a horrifying image" or "a dreadful sight" can serve as alternatives depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a horrifying image

Emphasizes the visual aspect and the terror induced, stronger emotional impact.

a dreadful sight

Focuses on the visual impact and the unpleasantness of the scene.

a shocking spectacle

Highlights the unexpected and disturbing nature of what is seen.

a ghastly scene

Emphasizes the horror and repulsiveness of the situation.

a disturbing perspective

Shifts the focus to the mental and emotional unease caused by the view.

a revolting panorama

Emphasizes the breadth of the view and its repulsiveness.

a sickening display

Focuses on the feeling of nausea and disgust evoked by what is shown.

a bleak outlook

Shifts focus to a pessimistic future prediction.

a grim prospect

Highlights the unpleasant and unwelcoming nature of the future.

a dire forecast

Focuses on a negative and impending prediction about the future.

FAQs

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

You can use "an appalling vision" to describe something shocking or disturbing. For example, "The documentary presented "an appalling vision" of the consequences of climate change."

What are some alternatives to "an appalling vision"?

Alternatives include "a horrifying image", "a dreadful sight", or "a shocking spectacle", depending on the specific context and the emotion you want to convey.

Is "an appalling vision" formal or informal?

"An appalling vision" is generally suitable for neutral to formal contexts, such as news reports or descriptive writing. It might be overly dramatic for casual conversation.

What makes "an appalling vision" different from "a disturbing image"?

"An appalling vision" suggests a more profound and intense level of shock and horror than "a disturbing image". "Appalling" implies a stronger moral or ethical violation, whereas "disturbing" may simply indicate unease.