distressing matter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "distressing matter" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a topic or issue that causes distress or concern. Example: "The report addressed a distressing matter that required immediate attention from the board."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

A police spokeswoman said: "This has been an extremely distressing matter for all those involved.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

The fact that it deals with such distressing subject matter without falling prey to sentimentality makes it all the more admirable.

The Guardian - Books

Being my first foreign assignment, I was expecting a bit of a rough ride into an unknown territory and the horribly distressing subject matter within it, but nothing I couldn't handle.

Vice

Indeed, participants may not have had the opportunity to discuss such distressing matters before the study and had this study not been conducted.

BMJ Open

She was initially reluctant because, as a mother, she found the subject matter distressing.

Wikipedia

It was the most distressing, infuriating thing.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

From an ethical point of view, given the very distressing nature of the subject matter, it also allows the participant to feel more relaxed and secure, knowing that they can disclose information at their own pace [ 37, 40, 41].

BMC Public Health

Still, it is distressing that on a matter of this magnitude so few opposing voices were heard.

The New York Times

You might think that the soothing white palate might make the subject matter less distressing; in fact, my stress level was heightened.

The New Yorker

It is as if his subconscious has broken its bounds: "No matter how distressing the scenes, the boy remains impassive... Reykjavík has, for the first time, assumed a form that reflects his inner life: a fact he would not confide to anyone".

The Guardian - Books

The subject matter is coarse, distressing, and hostile: the life and the career of Andrea Dunbar, the British dramatist who died in 1990, at the age of twenty-nine.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When addressing sensitive subjects, use "distressing matter" to acknowledge the emotional impact on those involved, showing empathy and understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "distressing matter" excessively in formal or business writing where a more neutral term like "concerning issue" or "problematic situation" might be more appropriate to maintain objectivity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "distressing matter" functions as an adjective-noun combination, where "distressing" modifies the noun "matter". This combination typically serves to identify a specific issue or topic as being emotionally upsetting or concerning. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

15%

Encyclopedias

10%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "distressing matter" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a topic or situation that causes emotional upset or concern. While Ludwig AI confirms its usability, it is relatively rare and most often found in news, formal and business contexts. Alternatives like "troubling issue" or "concerning situation" may be more appropriate in certain formal settings. When using "distressing matter", acknowledge the emotional impact to show empathy. Avoid overuse in business writing, opting for more neutral tones. Overall, use it thoughtfully to convey the appropriate level of sensitivity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

troubling issue

Focuses more on the problematic nature of the subject.

concerning situation

Emphasizes the worry or unease caused by the circumstances.

unsettling event

Highlights the disturbance or disruption caused.

worrisome development

Indicates anxiety about how things are progressing.

unfortunate incident

Underlines the regrettable or unlucky nature.

regrettable situation

Highlights feelings of sorrow or disappointment.

alarming circumstance

Stresses the potential danger or risk involved.

difficult problem

Focuses on the challenge and complexity.

grave concern

Emphasizes the seriousness and significance of the issue.

sensitive topic

Highlights the need for careful handling due to potential emotional reactions.

FAQs

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

You can use "distressing matter" to refer to a subject or issue that causes emotional upset or concern. For example: "The committee addressed a "distressing matter" that required immediate action".

What are some alternatives to "distressing matter"?

Alternatives include "troubling issue", "concerning situation", or "worrisome development", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "distressing matter" a formal or informal phrase?

"Distressing matter" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but in highly formal or business settings, a more neutral phrase like "concerning issue" might be preferred.

What makes something a "distressing matter"?

A "distressing matter" is characterized by its capacity to cause emotional distress, worry, or anxiety. It often involves sensitive subjects or situations with potentially negative consequences.