consumed by guilt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "consumed by guilt" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of being overwhelmed or deeply affected by feelings of guilt. Example: "After realizing the impact of his actions, he was consumed by guilt and couldn't sleep at night."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

Then, I am consumed by guilt.

The New York Times - Health

"I was consumed by guilt," Mrs. Gallo said.

The New York Times

His intimates found him consumed by guilt and fear.

The New Yorker

Normal or not, many of the 38 were consumed by guilt after the crime.

The New York Times

Meanwhile, Briony, now a nurse, becomes consumed by guilt at what she has done.

The Economist

Relatives say she was consumed by guilt for having brought them into the world.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

When his Hickey speaks, at the end of the play, of how intolerable his wife's love was to him, he isn't consumed by sickening guilt and the stink of his shitty nerves; instead, he sits back in his chair, putting his jacket on, then taking it off again, like a star doing what he has to do to remind audiences that, after all, he has won two Oscars.

The New Yorker

For some buyers those consumed by environmental guilt and willing to drive lightweight, low-horsepower cars–hybrids are already a compelling buy.

Forbes

Ancient but Evolving Illness "The Iliad" described warriors consumed by feelings of guilt, rage and grief.

The New York Times

During the penalty phase of the trial, the jury has heard testimony from witnesses called by the defense asserting that Mr. Hayes is consumed by feelings of guilt for the crime.

The New York Times

According to Slate, while Hamlets Claudius is mostly "a second-rate schemer ... consumed by anxiety and guilt," Scar very much "delight[s] in his monstrosity".

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "consumed by guilt", ensure the context clearly identifies the cause of the guilt to provide a complete understanding for the reader. For example, avoid saying "He was consumed by guilt" and clarify with "He was consumed by guilt after betraying his friend."

Common error

Avoid using "consumed by guilt" repeatedly in close proximity. Vary your language by using synonyms such as "wracked with guilt" or "overwhelmed by remorse" to maintain reader engagement and prevent monotony.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "consumed by guilt" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to describe the state of being overwhelmed by feelings of guilt. Ludwig examples showcase its descriptive use, illustrating individuals overcome by remorse and responsibility.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "consumed by guilt" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a state of being overwhelmed by feelings of guilt. Ludwig examples, derived primarily from News & Media sources, demonstrate its use in portraying characters or individuals deeply affected by remorse. While similar phrases like "wracked with guilt" or "overwhelmed by remorse" can be used interchangeably, "consumed by guilt" provides a concise and impactful way to convey the intensity of the feeling. Ensure that the context clearly identifies the cause of the guilt to enhance clarity. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's correct usage and provides various examples for contextual understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

wracked with guilt

Replaces "consumed" with "wracked", emphasizing the intensity of the guilt.

overwhelmed by remorse

Substitutes "guilt" with "remorse", focusing on regret and sorrow.

burdened by conscience

Replaces "guilt" with "conscience", highlighting the moral aspect.

filled with self-reproach

Uses a more formal tone to express the feeling of guilt.

haunted by regret

Emphasizes the lingering and disturbing nature of the guilt.

feeling guilty

A simpler, more direct way of expressing the feeling of guilt.

suffering from guilt

Highlights the negative impact of guilt on well-being.

tormented by their actions

Focuses on the actions that caused the guilt, intensifying the feeling.

carrying the weight of guilt

Uses a metaphor to describe the burden of guilt.

feeling responsible for

Shifts the focus slightly from feeling guilty to accepting responsibility.

FAQs

How can I use "consumed by guilt" in a sentence?

Use "consumed by guilt" to describe someone who is overwhelmed by feelings of guilt. For example, "After the accident, she was "consumed by guilt" and struggled to forgive herself."

What's a less intense alternative to "consumed by guilt"?

If you want to express a milder feeling of guilt, consider using phrases like "feeling guilty" or "remorseful".

Is it correct to say "consumed with guilt" instead of "consumed by guilt"?

While "consumed with guilt" is understandable, ""consumed by guilt"" is the more common and grammatically preferred expression.

What is the difference between "consumed by guilt" and "haunted by regret"?

"Consumed by guilt" suggests an overwhelming, immediate feeling of responsibility for something, while "haunted by regret" implies a lingering, persistent sorrow over past actions.