appalling circumstances

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "appalling circumstances" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe situations that are shocking, terrible, or extremely unpleasant. Example: "The report detailed the appalling circumstances faced by the refugees in the camp."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

Other more assertive and outlandish personalities overwhelm them; the world's appalling circumstances rightly appall them.

The New York Times - Books

Broomfield believes in the essential goodness of human nature, even in appalling circumstances.

The Guardian - Film

But the work of releasing them from armed groups and reintegrating them into their communities goes on in appalling circumstances.

Independent

In a statement, Alice's family said: "We have been devastated by the appalling circumstances of Alice's death.

The Guardian

Or can he continue to persuade the public that he's doing his best in appalling circumstances and that Labour would be worse?

The Guardian

It doesn't respond to the appalling circumstances of the time, it doesn't transcend them, it may not even help to resist them — it will simply outlive them.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

On that reading, Cinque and the other Africans who rose up and killed many of their captors had a right of self-defense, as well as a right to have their case heard in court, given the appalling circumstance of their kidnapping.

SEP

In life, comedy occurs naturally, as it should, in the most appalling of circumstances.

The Guardian

A hunger exists for a fairer, more inclusive society but appalling economic circumstances have triggered a dark mood in Europe.

The Guardian - Opinion

Italy's Romanies, many already living in the most appalling economic circumstances, can be forgiven for feeling under siege.

The Guardian

Rarely has a film about an appalling, tragic circumstance been so thoroughly and convincingly charged with joy.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider stronger synonyms like "horrific" or "dire" if the situation warrants more impactful language.

Common error

Avoid using "appalling circumstances" to describe mildly unpleasant or inconvenient situations. This dilutes the phrase's impact and can come across as hyperbolic. Reserve it for truly shocking or terrible scenarios.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "appalling circumstances" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "appalling" modifies the noun "circumstances". It describes a situation characterized by extreme unpleasantness, shock, or horror. Ludwig's examples showcase its usage in describing deeply troubling events or conditions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Science

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "appalling circumstances" is a noun phrase used to describe situations of extreme unpleasantness or shock. Ludwig confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in news and media contexts to emphasize the severity of events. While the phrase is effective in conveying the gravity of a situation, it should be reserved for truly shocking scenarios to avoid diluting its impact. Related phrases like "terrible circumstances" and "horrific circumstances" can be used as alternatives, depending on the desired level of emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

terrible circumstances

This alternative uses a more common adjective to describe the circumstances.

horrific circumstances

This alternative emphasizes the horror and shock associated with the circumstances.

dreadful circumstances

This alternative suggests a sense of fear and unease surrounding the circumstances.

shocking circumstances

This alternative highlights the surprising and disturbing nature of the circumstances.

dire situations

This alternative focuses on the urgent and desperate nature of the situations.

wretched conditions

This alternative focuses on the poor and unfortunate state of the conditions.

unfavorable conditions

This alternative presents a more neutral and less emotional description.

difficult situation

This alternative uses a more general term to describe a challenging situation.

grim reality

This alternative shifts the focus to the stark and unpleasant truth of a situation.

tragic events

This alternative focuses on the sorrowful and devastating nature of the events.

FAQs

How can I use "appalling circumstances" in a sentence?

You can use "appalling circumstances" to describe a situation that is shocking, terrible, or extremely unpleasant. For example, "The report detailed the appalling circumstances faced by the refugees in the camp."

What are some alternatives to "appalling circumstances"?

You can use alternatives like "terrible circumstances", "horrific circumstances", or "dire situations" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "appalling circumstances"?

It is appropriate to use "appalling circumstances" when describing situations that are exceptionally bad, shocking, or disturbing. It should not be used for minor inconveniences.

What is the difference between "appalling circumstances" and "difficult situation"?

"Appalling circumstances" implies a much greater degree of severity and shock than "difficult situation". The former suggests something deeply disturbing, while the latter simply indicates a challenge or problem.