distressing times

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "distressing times" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe periods of difficulty, hardship, or emotional turmoil. Example: "Many people have faced distressing times during the pandemic, struggling with isolation and uncertainty."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Just as people have opened their homes to friends, so has the Santa Fe Institute opened its computers, providing a kind of laboratory in exile for scientists who feel they must work even in such distressing times.

The New York Times - Science

Archbishop Tartaglia said: "These are painful and distressing times for the archdiocese.

BBC

The difficulties of identifying optimum distressing times and ability to assess the effectiveness of each destressing attempt, the limited time available for face destressing (to avoid production delays) and adverse drilling conditions reduced the overall success of the efforts.

International Journal of Coal Science & Technology

"I was starting to recover from some really distressing times, but then I turned 17 and social services started arranging for me to live alone.

Vice

You can do "practice hugs" during calm times, and calming hugs during distressing times.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

It can be a distressing time.

The Guardian - Opinion

It was a distressing time, Mr. Gousse said recently.

The New York Times

"It's been a rather distressing time," says Albee quietly.

The Guardian

"It was quite a distressing time," he recalls.

The Guardian

It was a very distressing time for me.

The New York Times

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

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "distressing times", consider the specific emotional impact you want to convey. It's best suited for situations involving significant emotional or psychological suffering, not just general difficulty.

Common error

Avoid using "distressing times" to describe merely inconvenient or mildly challenging situations. Reserve it for scenarios involving genuine emotional or psychological distress to maintain its impact and avoid exaggeration.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "distressing times" functions as a noun phrase that serves to describe a period characterized by significant emotional or psychological suffering. Ludwig indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and appropriate for use in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "distressing times" is a grammatically correct and relatively uncommon phrase used to describe periods marked by emotional or psychological suffering. Ludwig confirms its acceptability and appropriateness in written English. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it serves to evoke empathy and convey hardship. While versatile, it's essential to reserve its use for situations genuinely involving significant distress to maintain its impact. Related phrases include "difficult periods" and "hard times", each providing a slightly different nuance. The frequency of the phrase is "uncommon".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hard times

A simple and direct way to refer to periods of hardship or adversity.

difficult periods

Focuses on the challenging nature of the times, without necessarily emphasizing emotional distress.

times of hardship

Specifically emphasizes the presence of adversity and suffering.

troubled eras

Highlights the problematic or turbulent nature of the times, suggesting instability or conflict.

periods of adversity

Highlights the presence of unfavorable or challenging situations.

challenging moments

Emphasizes the demanding aspects of the times, indicating a need for resilience and effort.

trying circumstances

Underscores the testing or burdensome aspects of the situation, suggesting a strain on resources or emotions.

unsettling moments

Focuses on the anxiety and unease caused by the times.

precarious situations

Highlights the instability and uncertainty of the times.

sorrowful days

Emphasizes the sadness and grief associated with the times.

FAQs

What are some synonyms for "distressing times"?

Alternatives include "difficult periods", "hard times", or "troubled eras". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "distressing times" in formal writing?

Yes, "distressing times" can be used in formal writing, especially when describing situations involving significant emotional or psychological impact. However, consider the specific tone and audience; more neutral terms like "challenging periods" may be preferable in some contexts.

How does "distressing times" differ from "difficult times"?

"Distressing times" specifically emphasizes the emotional and psychological suffering involved, whereas "difficult times" is a broader term that can refer to any challenging situation, whether or not it causes significant emotional distress.

Can "distressing times" be used to describe personal and global events?

Yes, the phrase can be applied to both personal experiences and broader global events. For example, it can describe the emotional impact of a personal loss or the widespread suffering caused by a natural disaster or pandemic.