appalling to hear

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "appalling to hear" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing shock or dismay about something that has been said or reported. Example: "The news of the disaster was truly appalling to hear, leaving many in disbelief."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

"It was appalling to hear Donald Trump describe immigrants as drug dealers, racists and criminals," Clinton said on Monday.

The Guardian

So it is appalling to hear Kissinger, an epic life later, telling Nixon on a scratchy recording from March 1, 1973: "Let's face it: The emigration of Jews from the Soviet Union is not an objective of American foreign policy.

The Washington Post

In this context it is even more appalling to hear that the MoD is still failing to meet the most basic needs of its service personnel and their families.

The Guardian

But it was appalling to hear his successor, Michael Mukasey — who was supposed to be better — demanding that Congress further expand Mr. Bush's power to detain foreigners without charges or reliable evidence, and further evade judicial oversight.

The New York Times

Lisa Doyle, the Refugee Council's head of advocacy, said: "It's utterly appalling to hear that the families of British citizens who are fleeing the murderous advance of Isis are being prevented from coming to live in safety with their husbands here in Britain.

The Guardian

But it's appalling to hear it come from a state supreme court justice -- and not in a speech or an offhand remark, but in an actual opinion.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

It's because people have moved on and it's actually kind of appalling to see.

TechCrunch

He has something of Humbert Humbert about him – appalling but you want to hear more.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

We watch the video, which is of a truly appalling quality and virtually impossible to hear.

The Guardian

As long as institutions like Winterbourne View are allowed to exist, we will continue to hear these appalling stories of people with learning disabilities suffering and even dying from neglect".

The Guardian

"What is most appalling is that the state of Maryland refused to hear the pleas of the community, and has allowed [Carhart] to butcher women and children".

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "appalling to hear" when you want to express strong disapproval or shock at something you've been told or learned. It's more impactful than simply saying you disagree.

Common error

Avoid using "appalling to hear" in very informal settings. While grammatically correct, it can sound overly dramatic or stilted in everyday conversation. Consider using a more casual alternative like "that's terrible to hear".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "appalling to hear" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying an implied subject. It expresses a subjective reaction to information received, indicating strong disapproval or shock. Ludwig provides examples demonstrating its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "appalling to hear" is a phrase used to express strong disapproval or shock upon receiving certain information. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and suggests that, while appropriate for neutral to formal contexts like news reports, it might sound overly dramatic in casual conversations. Consider alternatives like "shocking to hear" or "disturbing to hear" depending on the situation. The phrase is most commonly found in news and media contexts, reflecting its use in conveying serious or concerning information.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

shocking to hear

This alternative emphasizes the element of surprise and disbelief.

disturbing to hear

This focuses on the unsettling or worrying nature of the information.

horrifying to hear

Implies a greater level of fear or revulsion.

dismaying to hear

Highlights the disappointment or discouragement caused by the news.

alarming to hear

Suggests the information is a cause for concern or warning.

awful to hear

A more general expression of displeasure or sadness.

terrible to hear

Expresses a strong feeling of negativity or regret.

deplorable to hear

Indicates strong disapproval and condemnation.

regrettable to hear

Focuses on the unfortunate or undesirable nature of the information.

unacceptable to hear

Highlights that the information received is not tolerable.

FAQs

How can I use "appalling to hear" in a sentence?

You can use "appalling to hear" to express shock or strong disapproval upon hearing something. For example, "It was "appalling to hear" the details of the scandal."

What can I say instead of "appalling to hear"?

You can use alternatives like "shocking to hear", "disturbing to hear", or "horrifying to hear" depending on the context.

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

It's appropriate when you want to convey a strong sense of dismay, outrage, or shock at something you've just learned or been told, particularly in formal or semi-formal contexts. It's more emphatic than a simple expression of disagreement.

What is the difference between "appalling to hear" and "disappointing to hear"?

"Appalling to hear" implies a stronger negative reaction, suggesting something morally wrong or deeply shocking. "Disappointing to hear" simply conveys a feeling of sadness that things are not as expected.