distressing issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "distressing issue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a topic or problem that causes anxiety, worry, or discomfort. Example: "The report highlighted a distressing issue regarding the lack of mental health resources in our community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Because of this ideal there is nothing more separate in our minds than children and violence – and this prevents us from tackling this distressing issue of violence in children with greater insight.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

There is no doubt that the conclusion of Bellfield's trial has raised difficult and distressing issues.

Independent

It looks in detail at the distressing issues that can affect many cancer patients following their treatment.

The Guardian

The report will look in detail at the distressing issues that can affect many cancer patients, such as chronic fatigue, bowel and urinary incontinence, pain, depression and sexual difficulties, following their treatment.

The Guardian

For people who were previously struggling with distressing issues, like a divorce, death in the family or job loss, the events of last week probably heightened their despair and sadness.

The New York Times

She said that based on the commission's "preliminary assessment" of the election, new technology alone would be "insufficient to address the significant and distressing issues and barriers that prevented qualified voters from participating in the recent presidential election".

The New York Times

This approach worked for Maria and her student, and it has convinced her that the solution to distressing issues lies in how you teach them, rather than removing them.

The Guardian

All employers have a responsibility for staff wellbeing and employees faced with distressing issues often need time to let off steam or just reflect – one to one meetings that are mainly task or project focused are not enough for frontline staff in certain roles or facing certain issues.

The Guardian

But as time has gone on, the focus on the fluffy – so often to the point where it appears to be given equal billing to more urgent and distressing issues affecting women – has irked me, and other feminists writers, more and more.

The Guardian - Opinion

These decisions hinge around complex and potentially distressing issues such as the duty to preserve life, the right to a peaceful and dignified death, and the balance between length of life and quality of life [3].

Annals of Intensive Care

Explore distressing issues as they emerge.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "distressing issue", ensure the context clearly conveys the emotional impact the issue has on individuals or groups. Be specific about the nature of the distress if possible.

Common error

While "distressing issue" is acceptable, avoid using it repeatedly in formal documents. Opt for stronger, more precise language (e.g., "critical problem", "urgent matter") to maintain impact and avoid sounding repetitive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "distressing issue" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "distressing" acts as a descriptive adjective modifying the noun "issue". Ludwig AI confirms its appropriate usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

32%

Less common in

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "distressing issue" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that describes a problem or topic causing significant worry or emotional pain. According to Ludwig AI, its application is appropriate across diverse contexts such as news, scientific research, and formal communication. While versatile, it's advisable to use precise language to avoid repetition and maintain impact. Consider using alternatives such as "troubling matter" or "concerning problem" based on the specific shade of meaning you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

troubling matter

Focuses on the problematic aspect of the situation, similar to "distressing issue" but slightly less emotionally charged.

concerning problem

Highlights the worrisome nature of the issue, framing it as a problem that requires attention.

worrying situation

Emphasizes the anxiety-inducing aspect of the issue, focusing on the potential negative outcomes.

unsettling development

Suggests a change or unfolding event that causes unease or discomfort.

grave concern

Indicates a serious and significant issue that demands careful consideration.

serious predicament

Highlights the difficult or dangerous nature of the situation, implying a need for immediate action.

difficult situation

A broad term that describes something that causes problems or is not easy to deal with.

sensitive subject

Highlights that some topics or situations are easily offended and require cautious handling.

unpleasant topic

Indicates a topic that is not enjoyable or agreeable to discuss or consider.

agonizing dilemma

Emphasizes the mental or emotional suffering caused by the difficult choice or situation.

FAQs

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

You can use "distressing issue" to describe a problem or topic that causes significant worry or emotional pain. For example: "The report highlighted a "distressing issue" regarding the lack of mental health resources in our community."

What can I say instead of "distressing issue"?

You can use alternatives like "troubling matter", "concerning problem", or "worrying situation" depending on the specific context.

Is it more appropriate to say "distressing issue" or "concerning issue"?

Both phrases are correct, but ""distressing issue"" implies a stronger emotional impact than "concerning issue". Use ""distressing issue"" when the issue causes significant anxiety or sorrow.

What makes an issue "distressing"?

An issue is considered "distressing" when it causes emotional upset, anxiety, or mental suffering. This can be due to its severity, impact on individuals or communities, or its ethical implications.