are completely desperate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are completely desperate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of extreme need or hopelessness in various contexts, such as personal situations or broader societal issues. Example: "After months of searching for a job without any success, many applicants are completely desperate for any opportunity that comes their way."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"They are completely desperate.

The New York Times

That is the wrong thing to do, but if you are completely desperate and not a good friend, then do it.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

"I was completely desperate".

The New York Times - Arts

"I was completely desperate because I didn't have anywhere to go," Mrs. Mercado said.

The New York Times

Both consoles have a handful of mid-tier titles worth a go if you're completely desperate – The Order: 1886 (fantastic facial hair) and Ryse: Son of Rome (shiny shields and swords) certainly look good while playing entirely ordinarily, on PS4 and Xbone respectively.

Vice

If the following guide didn't work, frequently visit the bathroom and use plenty of bathroom tissue as a sanitary pad, and if you're completely desperate, use one of your socks.

WikiHow

Now on Capitol Hill, election-bound lawmakers are completely spooked and desperate do something that looks tough on corporate criminals -- without irritating more big campaign donors than absolutely necessary.

The New York Times

We are all desperate.

Independent

"These allegations are completely false and are a desperate political attack by the National Democrat Party and the Washington Post on this campaign," Moore said.

Huffington Post

In a statement, Moore denied the allegations, saying, "These allegations are completely false and are a desperate political attack by the National Democrat Party and the Washington Post on this campaign".

Vice

For many viral diseases, vaccines are completely lacking, e.g., cytomegalo virus and Dengue virus, not to cite the desperate need for a vaccine against HIV.

Human Vaccines and Immunotherapeutics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are completely desperate" when emphasizing a feeling of utter hopelessness and a lack of viable options. Ensure the context clearly supports this level of intensity.

Common error

Avoid using "are completely desperate" when the situation is merely challenging or difficult, but not truly hopeless. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are completely desperate" functions as a predicate adjective describing the state of being. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically sound and usable. It describes a state of extreme need or hopelessness, modifying the subject to indicate their severe condition.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are completely desperate" effectively conveys a sense of extreme need, urgency, and hopelessness. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability, noting its presence across various contexts, including news, general reference, and scientific discussions. While versatile, it’s important to use this phrase judiciously, ensuring the situation genuinely warrants such a strong expression. Consider alternatives like "are utterly hopeless" or "are in dire straits" to fine-tune the intended nuance. By understanding its function, purpose, and appropriate register, you can employ "are completely desperate" with precision and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are utterly hopeless

Emphasizes the absence of hope as the primary aspect of desperation.

are in dire straits

Focuses on the severity and precariousness of the situation.

are at their wit's end

Highlights the exhaustion of mental resources and coping mechanisms.

are reaching the end of their rope

Suggests a loss of patience and tolerance in a difficult situation.

are driven to despair

Highlights the result of the desperation

are in a state of crisis

Focuses on a moment of danger and instability.

are facing utter ruin

Implies a complete and irreversible downfall.

are running out of options

Highlights the limitation of opportunities and choices.

are up against it

An informal expression indicating facing significant difficulties.

are feeling utterly defeated

Suggests a state of complete and overwhelming loss.

FAQs

How can I use "are completely desperate" in a sentence?

Use "are completely desperate" to describe a situation where individuals or entities feel they have no other options or hope left. For instance, "After losing their home and jobs, they "are completely desperate" for assistance."

What are some alternatives to "are completely desperate"?

Alternatives include "are utterly hopeless", "are in dire straits", or "are at their wit's end". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it more formal to say "are completely desperate" or "are in dire straits"?

"Are in dire straits" tends to be slightly more formal than "are completely desperate". Both are acceptable in many contexts, but "are in dire straits" might be preferred in formal writing or business communications.

What's the difference between "are completely desperate" and "are very worried"?

"Are completely desperate" implies a much higher level of severity than "are very worried". Desperation suggests a sense of hopelessness and a lack of options, while worry indicates concern and anxiety without necessarily implying a complete loss of hope.