an uncomfortable fact

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an uncomfortable fact" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a truth or reality that may cause discomfort or unease to the reader or listener. Example: "While many people prefer to believe in a perfect world, the uncomfortable fact is that inequality still exists in our society."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

But they are also awakening to an uncomfortable fact: a truncated summer on speed dial.

The New York Times

Jean-Claude Juncker, the president of the EU commission, stated an uncomfortable fact.

The Guardian - Opinion

For those who argue 'something must be done' about Isis, that failure of Western action is an uncomfortable fact.

Independent

At the heart of this "market" lies an uncomfortable fact: Uganda has a huge child abandonment problem.

The Guardian

It is an uncomfortable fact that several England players do not believe the coaching structure around Ashton is as good as it should be.

The Guardian - Sport

The square on which it sits is named after the father of Zionism, Theodor Herzl, an uncomfortable fact for the delegation.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

The BIS also dances around a parallel, uncomfortable fact: that austerity within the euro-zone has often enough been associated with falling market confidence and not the other way around.

The Economist

That is a sad and uncomfortable fact, but it's a fact that has to be accepted.

The New York Times

So it may be an expected, if uncomfortable, fact that some travelers appear to exploit perhaps the only remaining loophole to a breezy airport experience — the line-cutting privileges given to people who request airport wheelchairs, for which no proof of a disability is required.

The New York Times

Painter still has to contend with the uncomfortable fact that attaching a body to a chassis is a little harder than attaching a hard drive to a motherboard.

Forbes

The intention was to highlight the uncomfortable fact that a large proportion of the oil, coal and gas reserves that states and companies already hold have to stay untapped in order to avoid dangerous climate change.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an uncomfortable fact", ensure it is followed by a clear and concise explanation to mitigate potential negative reactions from your audience. Providing context and evidence will help them understand and accept the difficult truth.

Common error

Avoid stating "an uncomfortable fact" without providing sufficient background information or supporting evidence. This can lead to confusion, skepticism, or resistance from your audience. Always contextualize the fact and explain its implications.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an uncomfortable fact" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It introduces a statement or idea that is true but may cause unease or challenge existing beliefs. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

24%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an uncomfortable fact" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase employed to introduce a difficult or challenging truth. According to Ludwig AI, its usage is appropriate across various contexts, especially in news, media, and academic settings. When using this phrase, ensure you provide sufficient context and evidence to support your statement. Consider alternatives like "a troubling truth" or "a harsh reality" to vary your language. By following these guidelines, you can effectively communicate difficult information while minimizing potential negative reactions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a troubling truth

Focuses on the disturbing nature of the truth.

a harsh reality

Emphasizes the severe or unpleasant nature of the reality.

an inconvenient truth

Highlights the troublesome or awkward nature of the truth, drawing on a well-known phrase.

a bitter pill to swallow

Uses a metaphorical expression to convey the difficulty in accepting the truth.

a difficult reality to face

Focuses on the challenge of confronting the reality.

an unwelcome revelation

Emphasizes the undesired nature of the revealed truth.

a sobering realization

Highlights the serious and thoughtful nature of the realization.

a hard truth to accept

Focuses on the difficulty in accepting the truth.

a painful reality

Emphasizes the emotional distress caused by the reality.

a challenging fact

Focuses on the difficulty the fact presents.

FAQs

How can I use "an uncomfortable fact" in a sentence?

You can use "an uncomfortable fact" to introduce a statement that might be difficult for people to accept or acknowledge. For example, "An uncomfortable fact is that climate change is already impacting communities around the world."

What are some alternatives to saying "an uncomfortable fact"?

You can use alternatives like "a troubling truth", "a harsh reality", or "an inconvenient truth" depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "an uncomfortable fact" and "an uncomfortable truth"?

While both phrases are similar, "an uncomfortable fact" often refers to something verifiable and evidence-based, while "an uncomfortable truth" may encompass broader, more subjective realities or moral dilemmas.

When is it appropriate to use "an uncomfortable fact" in writing?

It is appropriate to use "an uncomfortable fact" when you need to address an issue that might be sensitive or difficult for your audience to hear, but is important to acknowledge. Be sure to provide context and support your statement with evidence.