deeply distressing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "deeply distressing" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation or event that has caused a great deal of emotional distress. For example: "The news of her death came as a deeply distressing shock to her family."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

All of this is deeply distressing.

The Guardian - Opinion

The result is both breathtaking and deeply distressing.

The Economist

That affected those kids so powerfully and it's deeply distressing".

The Guardian

"The atmosphere here is deeply distressing," Yorke confessed.

The Guardian - Music

Being physically restrained is usually a deeply distressing experience.

The Guardian

She and boyfriend Sam Cooper have asked for privacy at a "deeply distressing time".

Independent

Most of Wilson's calls were routine — traffic stops, house alarms — but some were deeply distressing.

The New Yorker

As such, he explained, a secure psychiatric unit was deeply distressing.

The Guardian

Speaking to the BBC, the Tory grandee said: "I find it deeply distressing.

The Guardian

But it is already very clear that many of the report's findings are deeply distressing.

The Guardian - Sport

This is a deeply distressing and disturbing case, but it is not an isolated one.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "deeply distressing", consider the audience and context. Ensure the phrase accurately reflects the intensity of the emotional impact you wish to convey. Overuse can diminish its effect, so reserve it for situations that genuinely warrant such strong language.

Common error

Avoid using "deeply distressing" for minor inconveniences or mild disappointments. Overusing the phrase weakens its impact and may make your writing sound melodramatic or insincere. Use more moderate language for less severe situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "deeply distressing" primarily functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun to describe something that causes significant emotional upset or pain. As Ludwig AI indicates, it effectively conveys the intensity of the negative emotional impact.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

97%

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "deeply distressing" is a common and grammatically sound adjectival phrase used to describe situations or events that cause significant emotional upset. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's appropriate for a variety of contexts, particularly in News & Media, to express empathy or concern. While synonyms like "profoundly upsetting" or "extremely disturbing" offer similar meanings, "deeply distressing" maintains a balance of formality and emotional impact. When employing this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the severity of the situation and avoid overuse to maintain its effectiveness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

profoundly upsetting

Emphasizes the depth of the emotional upset.

extremely disturbing

Focuses on the unsettling and perturbing nature of the situation.

intensely troubling

Highlights the worrying and concerning aspect of the situation.

greatly alarming

Stresses the sense of danger or urgency caused by the situation.

very concerning

A more general term indicating worry or unease.

acutely painful

Emphasizes the emotional pain experienced as a result.

severely disheartening

Highlights the loss of hope or morale caused by the situation.

particularly grievous

Implies a deep sorrow or suffering.

unsettlingly traumatic

Indicates a deeply disturbing experience that may have long-lasting effects.

exceptionally regrettable

Focuses on the feeling of sorrow or disappointment about something that has happened.

FAQs

How can I use "deeply distressing" in a sentence?

You can use "deeply distressing" to describe events, situations, or news that causes significant emotional upset. For example, "The report revealed deeply distressing details about the company's unethical practices."

What are some alternatives to "deeply distressing"?

Alternatives include "profoundly upsetting", "extremely disturbing", or "intensely troubling", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "deeply distressing" a formal or informal phrase?

"Deeply distressing" is suitable for both neutral and professional contexts, but avoid using it in informal settings where a more casual expression would be more appropriate.

What makes something "deeply distressing" as opposed to just "distressing"?

The addition of "deeply" emphasizes the intensity and severity of the emotional distress caused by something. It suggests a more profound and significant impact than simply "distressing" alone.